Bag-Valve-Mask Ventilation

Excerpt

Bag-valve-mask (BVM) ventilation is a critical skill for emergency care providers. Proficiency requires consistent practice, as this technique is commonly used in urgent and life-threatening situations. Effective ventilation depends on proper patient positioning. Without it, the tongue can fall back against the pharynx, potentially obstructing the airway.

The head tilt–chin lift or jaw thrust maneuver is crucial for maintaining airway patency (see Image. Head Tilt–Chin Lift Maneuver). The "sniffing" position, achieved by flexing the neck forward and aligning the sternal notch with the angle of the mandible, facilitates airway opening. An oropharyngeal (OPA) or nasopharyngeal (NPA) airway may also be used to maintain an open airway. In addition to facilitating airway patency, the sniffing position enhances glottic visualization and increases first-pass success during endotracheal intubation. BVM devices typically include a one-way or pressure-release valve and require a high-flow oxygen source to deliver oxygen effectively to the patient.