A 52-year-old male with severe rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis presents for elective lumbar spine fusion. Clinical examination reveals severely restricted cervical spine mobility, inability to open mouth beyond 2 cm, and a Mallampati score of IV. Routine induction with propofol and succinylcholine is contraindicated due to anticipated difficult airway. The anesthesiologist decides to perform awake fiberoptic intubation. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate initial step in the preparation for this procedure?