A sufficient depth of anesthesia before intubation of the trachea of a person with bronchial asthma minimizes the risk of hyperreactive airway reflexes leading to bronchospasm.

Although conditions for intubation may not be as good with this method, the patient will still be breathing if difficulties with intubation prolong the time before complete airway control is achieved.

If their condition deteriorates, they may need to have an endotracheal tube placed to protect their airway.