Using a BVM Skills Video

Summary

The video demonstrates how to properly use a bag-valve-mask (BVM) for resuscitation. It explains the three key components of the BVM—the bag, valve, and mask—and highlights its advantages, such as delivering 100% oxygen. The instructor demonstrates both one-person and two-person techniques, emphasizing the importance of sealing the mask correctly to prevent air leakage. Proper breathing rates and counting methods are explained, as well as how to check the victim's pulse. The two-person method uses the EC technique for sealing the mask and is more efficient when a second person is available.

Takeaways

• 🫁 The bag-valve-mask (BVM) consists of three main parts: the bag, the valve, and the mask.
• 💨 The BVM is a beneficial device as it delivers usable oxygen, unlike mouth-to-mouth, which uses exhaled air.
• 🧑‍⚕️ An oxygen tube can be attached to the BVM to provide 100% oxygen during resuscitation.
• 👃 The mask must be sealed properly over the patient's face, covering the chin and nose to prevent air leakage.
• 🤲 A one-person technique involves sealing the mask with one hand and squeezing the bag to deliver breaths.
• ⏳ The breathing rate should be one breath every five seconds, with each squeeze taking one second.
• 🫀 Check the pulse every two minutes, delivering 24 breaths in two minutes.
• 🧍‍♂️ In a two-person technique, one person focuses on sealing the mask while the other squeezes the bag.
• ✋ The EC technique (making an E with fingers and a C with thumb) is used to properly seal the mask in the two-person technique.
• 🛑 If the patient shows signs of life or starts breathing, stop BVM use and reassess the situation.

Q & A

What is a bag-valve-mask (BVM) and what are its three major components?

A bag-valve-mask (BVM) is a device used for resuscitation and providing ventilation to patients. Its three major components are the bag, which is squeezed to deliver air; the valve, which ensures one-way airflow; and the mask, which fits over the patient's face to provide a seal.

Why is using a BVM more beneficial than mouth-to-mouth resuscitation?

Using a BVM is more beneficial because the air delivered through the BVM is 100% oxygen when connected to an oxygen source, whereas mouth-to-mouth provides exhaled air, which has lower oxygen content.

How can you enhance the effectiveness of the BVM when using it for ventilation?

You can enhance the effectiveness of the BVM by attaching an oxygen tube to the bag, which will allow 100% oxygen to be delivered with each breath.

What steps should be taken before using the BVM on a patient?

Before using the BVM, you need to ensure the patient is not breathing by checking for signs of breathing (look, listen, and feel). Then, you should insert an oropharyngeal airway to maintain an open airway.

How do you properly seal the mask on the patient's face for a one-person technique?

For a one-person technique, place the base of the mask on the chin and the top over the nose. Use your entire hand to wrap around the mask, pressing down firmly to ensure no air escapes.

What should you do if your hand size isn't large enough to squeeze the bag effectively?

If your hand size isn't large enough, you can use your thigh to help collapse the bag fully and deliver sufficient air to the patient.

What is the recommended breathing rate when using a BVM for resuscitation?

The recommended breathing rate is one breath every five seconds, which results in approximately 12 breaths per minute, mimicking normal breathing.

Why is it important to count breaths while using the BVM?

Counting breaths ensures you're delivering the correct number of breaths per minute (12), and it helps maintain proper timing during resuscitation.

What is the EC technique, and when is it used?

The EC technique is used in a two-person BVM setup to seal the mask. One person forms an 'E' with their three fingers and a 'C' with their thumb and index finger to seal the mask, while the other person squeezes the bag.

What should you do if the patient starts showing signs of life while using the BVM?

If the patient shows signs of life, you should stop using the BVM, remove the airway, and monitor their breathing to ensure they are recovering properly.