Warnings and Common Errors for Mirror Laryngoscopy Failure to align the light source as closely as possible with line of sight Failure to warm the mirror, because a cold mirror will fog Failure to maintain hold of the patient's tongue to keep it retracted Allowing the patient to lean back, which will prevent full visualization Having the mirror at the wrong angle to see the larynx Tips and Tricks for Mirror Laryngoscopy To avoid neck strain, raise the patient so that the mirror can be held close to examiner's eye level.