Questions and Answers about Bag Valve Masks | Winner-medi.com

 How does a trained responder actually use an Ambu bag (bag valve mask)?

Connect the bag (or oxygen reservoir, if included), mask and oxygen tube to the BVM.
If possible, use an airway adjunct (also known as a glottal-block or bite-block) to keep the tongue out of the way. Otherwise, the tongue may block the airway and force air into the esophagus or stomach.
Position themselves behind the patient, above the patient’s head if the patient is lying on the floor.
Position the mask on the patient’s face and hold it in place firmly over the nose and mouth. This may be easier with one person holding the mask in place and another person squeezing the bag.
To achieve a good seal, pull the chin up (rather than pushing the forehead down) to keep the airway open.
Squeeze the bag until the chest rises, count six seconds between bag squeezes, about 10-12 times per minute on an adult.
Avoid squeezing too quickly and over-ventilating the patient.

Note that the mask must seal and the patient’s chest must rise when the bag is squeezed. If this isn’t happening, air isn’t getting into the lungs.

Who can use an Ambu bag/manual resuscitation bag?
An Ambu bag should be used only by trained medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, EMTs and paramedics. Serious complications from misuse of a BVM can occur; it must be used properly for sufficient respiration to be provided and to avoid injuries or complications from misdirection of air, etc. Learn more about BVM usage and complications.

How much does an Ambu bag/artificial resuscitation bag cost?
A single-use disposable BVM (bag valve mask) is available for under $20, while reusable units with oxygen reservoir can reach costs over $300.