Healthy Notes

  Ambu (Bag-Valve-Mask)  What is an Ambu bag (BVM)? A Bag-Valve-Mask device is a handheld self-inflating bag attached to a face mask (and optionally an oxygen reservoir) that provides positive pressure ventilation to a patient who is apnoeic or hypoventilating. It's a lifesaving, first-line tool in resuscitation, emergency rooms, wards and prehospital care. Why learn the Ambu bag well? It’s used in cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, during induction for airway control, and while awaiting definitive airway placement. Mistakes (too fast, too big breaths, poor seal) cause hypoxia, gastric insufflation, aspiration, or lung injury. Mastery improves patient outcomes and exam confidence. Core components (visual checklist) Self-inflating bag (varied sizes: adult/child/infant) One-way valve / non-rebreathing valve Mask (anatomical masks in several sizes) Oxygen reservoir and inlet (for high FiO₂) PEEP valve (optional; helps oxygenation) Pressu...