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Intermediate Technical IVT

bag-mask ventilation

Manual ventilation technique using a self-inflating bag and face mask to provide positive pressure ventilation.

Full Definition

Bag-mask ventilation is a fundamental airway management skill involving the use of a self-inflating resuscitation bag connected to a face mask to provide positive pressure ventilation. In pediatric anesthesia, this technique is essential for preoxygenation, ventilation between induction and intubation, and emergency airway management. Proper technique requires appropriate mask sizing, optimal head positioning, and adequate seal while avoiding excessive pressure that could cause gastric distension. Effective bag-mask ventilation can be life-saving when intubation is delayed or unsuccessful.

Usage

Usage note: May be abbreviated as 'BMV' in emergency situations but spell out in formal documentation

In Context

  • "Effective bag-mask ventilation was maintained during the prolonged intubation attempt." — Difficult airway report
  • "The anesthesiologist taught the resident proper bag-mask ventilation technique for pediatric patients." — Educational documentation

Also known as

BMV manual ventilation positive pressure ventilation

Contrasted with

spontaneous breathing negative pressure ventilation

Don't confuse with

mechanical ventilation CPAP

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