What is the preferred technique for BVM ventilation according to the practice guidelines?

The preferred technique for bag-valve-mask (BVM) ventilation is for one person to operate the bag while another person seals the mask onto the patient’s face. This method is effective for multiple reasons. Firstly, it allows one operator to focus solely on delivering adequate ventilation through squeezing the bag, ensuring a consistent and controlled air volume is administered with each breath. Meanwhile, the other operator can dedicate attention to properly sealing the mask to ensure that there are no leaks, which is crucial for effective ventilation. A good seal maximizes the effectiveness of each breath and minimizes the risk of air escaping, thus ensuring adequate oxygenation of the patient.

This technique is easier to manage, especially in emergency situations, as it divides the responsibilities, allowing for better coordination. In contrast, having both operators manually squeeze the bag simultaneously can lead to overventilation or improper timing, making it less effective. If one operator holds the mask while the other is performing CPR, that may compromise the quality of both ventilation and chest compressions, as the focus is split. Operating the BVM without a seal on the mask would result in ineffective ventilation, as the air may not reach the lungs, making this approach unsuitable for patient management.