Bag Mask Ventilation Explained
Jun 06, 2023
Our general anaesthetic drugs often stop the patient breathing💉 So that means we must provide oxygen for them. 😮💨
Bag-Mask Ventilation (BMV) is one of 3 ways to provide oxygen to the unconscious patient via the mouth, and there are some essential steps the anaesthetic assistant can take to ensure this happens smoothly.
There are 4 ways to optimise BMV:
1️⃣ Position
This refers to the way the patient is positioned on the operating table. It’s not just about having the patient in a slightly “ramped” position, it’s also about neck extension and jaw thrust. This is easier when the anaesthetist is using 2 hands on the mask.
☝🏻TIP: offer to squeeze the bag for the anaesthetist if they are having trouble. This allows them to use 2 hands.
2️⃣ Adjuncts
This refers to the oropharyngeal airway (Guedel) or nasopharyngeal airway.
☝🏻TIP: Have a range of Guedels ready, and don’t forget to prompt the anaesthetist to use one.
3️⃣ Size
BMV is easier when the mask fits well. Always check the mask fits before starting the case!
☝🏻TIP: Sometimes you need to go up in mask size after inserting a Guedel airway – be on the lookout for this!
4️⃣ Muscle relaxation
This is important! You haven’t had an optimal attempt at BMV if you haven’t paralysed the patient. This is OFTEN forgotten.
☝🏻TIP: Never be afraid to ask “is the patient paralysed?”
Now you know how to optimise BMV! 💪🏻 For more information, check out Lesson 5 of the Anaesthetic Assistant Starter Course!
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