BLS Certification Manual: Ventilation Equipment
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Recognizing Cardiac Arrest
- 3. Positioning & Pulse Check
- 4. Compressions for Adults
- 5. Compressions for Infants & Children
- 6. Ventilation Equipment
- 7. Ventilations for Adults
- 8. Ventilations for Infants & Children
- 9. AED Usage
- 10. AED Special Circumstances
- 11. Choking
- 12. Choking Procedures for Adults & Children
- 13. Choking Procedures for Infants
- 14. Team Roles
- 15. Effective Team Dynamics
- 16. Common Mistakes
- 17. Conclusion
- MyCPR Now™ Glossary
POCKET MASK (BARRIER DEVICE)
A pocket mask or barrier device should be used anytime ventilations are given. The pocket mask is a barrier device with a 1-way valve that allows air to pass into the victim’s airway and not back to the rescuer. The mask should be placed over the victim’s nose and mouth with the rescuer using the index finger and thumb of the hand closest to the forehead to secure the top of the mask. The bottom of the mask should be secured by pressing downward against the chin to complete a seal around the airway. Once the seal has been created, the rescuer can breathe into the tube, pushing air into the lungs of the victim.
Carrying CPR masks on a keychain or in a pocket is practical and convenient, providing a barrier between the rescuer and the patient during CPR. Additionally, portable CPR masks are available at stores readily, making it convenient for users to have access to cpr masks.
BAG VALVE MASK (BVM) VENTILATION
A bag valve mask is a ventilation device that utilizes a bag and a 1-way valve to provide better ventilation assistance to a victim. This device, used in single or multiple rescuer CPR, requires a sealing technique called the E-C clamp. BVM ventilation involves various aspects and techniques, including indications, contraindications, complications, and positioning. Achieving a good mask seal and utilizing adjuncts to aid with ventilation are crucial for effective mask ventilation.
E-C CLAMP TECHNIQUE FOR SPONTANEOUSLY BREATHING PATIENTS
The E-C clamp technique is used to create a seal over the victim's mouth and nose. The E-C clamp technique is completed in the following manner: One hand of the rescuer should be placed on the mask with the thumb and index finger holding the mask over the nose and mouth (the C shape), and the remaining three fingers grasping the jaw (the E shape) to complete the airway seal. With the remaining hand, the rescuer should squeeze the bag portion of the BVM, giving each breath for 1 second.
Complications and additional considerations for bag-valve-mask ventilation include factors that adversely affect bag-valve-mask ventilation, such as obesity, facial hair, and lack of or loose teeth.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR INFANTS AND CHILDREN
Pocket masks and BVMs are made in adult, child and infant sizes. Be sure the pocket mask or BVM is age appropriate for the victim, fits securely and forms an airtight seal. A comprehensive CPR kit should include adult, child and infant CPR masks,vinyl gloves and alcohol prep pads for adult, child and infant CPR procedures.