Can paralysis happen during intubation?

Only in rare cases: Intubation involves using an instrument (called a laryngoscope) to help the health care provider see the vocal cords and trachea. If the patient has an unstable spine in his neck, perhaps from an auto accident, etc, there is a very remote chance that using the laryngoscopes could put strain in the pine and damage the spinal cord. Anesthesiologists are trained how to intubate all patients safely.

Part of anesthesia: The anesthesia for intubation will often include a paralytic agent, but it either wears off or can be reversed by the time the person is ready to wake up from anesthesia.

Absolutely: This is why pts who have been brought into the trauma centers are at risk--or anyone who has a possible unstable cervical spine (car crash, ski accident). The neck must be left in a neutral position (think cervical collar) and if the airway needs to be secured by intubation one must do it w/o flexing or extending the neck. With the new videoscopes this is usually accomplished easily.

Yes: Many anesthesiologists use muscle relaxants to paralyze a patient for intubation and surgery. During the time o paralysis, you should be unconscious.

No: I think you are a bit confused. Paralysis occurs from one of the medications administered by the anesthesiologist. We do this to relax the facial and laryngeal muscles in order to facilitate intubation. The paralysis is temporary and always wears off...