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How do you use a bag valve mask?

Published in Emergency Ventilation 3 mins read

Using a bag valve mask (BVM) properly is essential for providing effective ventilation. Here's a breakdown of how to use one effectively:

Steps for Proper BVM Usage

To use a bag valve mask effectively, follow these steps:

  1. Proper Hand Placement:

    • Place the thenar eminences (the base of your thumbs on the palm) along the lateral edges of the mask.

  2. Mask Placement:

    • Lower the mask onto the person's face. Make sure it covers the mouth and nose adequately to form a good seal.

  3. Securing the Mask:

    • Position the four fingers of the same hand under the person’s mandible (jaw).

  4. Creating the Seal:

    • Press the mask against the face using the thenar eminences of your hand, while simultaneously pulling the mandible upward with your fingers. This maneuver is crucial to ensure a tight seal and open the airway.

  5. Ventilation:

    • Use your other hand to squeeze the bag of the BVM, delivering a breath. Observe for chest rise to confirm adequate ventilation.

Key Considerations for Effective BVM Use

  • Adequate Seal: The most important aspect of using a BVM is maintaining an effective seal between the mask and the person's face. A poor seal will lead to ineffective ventilation and air leakage.

  • Airway Management: Opening the airway is critical. The head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver (unless contraindicated by suspected cervical injury) or a jaw-thrust can be used to facilitate this. The pulling up on the mandible with your fingers, as described above, helps to accomplish this.

  • Proper Ventilation Rate: Avoid excessive and forceful breaths. Monitor chest rise and use the proper rate (typically 10-12 breaths per minute for an adult).

  • Oxygen Supplementation: Connect the BVM to an oxygen source to deliver a high concentration of oxygen to the person.

  • Two Rescuer Technique: When possible, using a two rescuer approach can lead to better effectiveness. One person can hold the mask to the face and open the airway while the other person squeezes the bag for ventilation.


Aspect Description
Hand Placement Thenar eminences along the lateral edges of the mask. Fingers under the mandible.
Mask Seal Press mask to the face while lifting the mandible.
Ventilation Squeeze the bag. Ensure chest rise is observed.



By following these steps and tips, you can use a bag valve mask effectively to provide crucial respiratory support.

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