Mask ventilation.

Abstract

Effective mask ventilation is an essential skill for any practitioner engagedin airway management. Recent methods to objectively describe maskventilation using waveform capnography help practitioners to monitor andcommunicate the effectiveness of mask ventilation.Gentle mask ventilation is now considered acceptable during rapidsequence induction/intubation after loss of consciousness, hence reducingthe incidence of hypoxia prior to tracheal intubation. Mask ventilation canbe enhanced with muscle relaxation, a double C-E grip, and jaw thrust. Thisis particularly relevant for patients with reduced apnoea time. An awareness of the complications associated with mask ventilation mayhelp reduce the morbidity associated with this technique. Effectiveventilation technique and optimum device selection are important aspectsfor resuscitation of the newborn. Teaching correct establishment andmaintenance of mask ventilation is essential for safe patient care. This review will examine some of the latest developments concerning maskventilation for adult and paediatric patients.