Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

In what situations is a bag valve mask (BVM) used?

1. Only in patients with a tracheostomy

2. For patients in respiratory arrest, cardiopulmonary arrest, and respiratory failure

3. Only when oxygen is available

4. Only for conscious patients

The correct answer is: For patients in respiratory arrest, cardiopulmonary arrest, and respiratory failure

The bag valve mask (BVM) is an essential device used in emergency medical situations to provide positive pressure ventilation. It is particularly crucial for patients who are unable to breathe adequately on their own, which includes those in respiratory arrest, cardiopulmonary arrest, and respiratory failure. In respiratory arrest, BVM is employed to deliver effective ventilation when the patient has stopped breathing. During cardiopulmonary arrest, when the heart has stopped beating, the BVM can be utilized as part of the resuscitation efforts to ensure that oxygen is delivered to the lungs until more advanced airway management can be performed. In cases of respiratory failure, where patients may be breathing inadequately or not at all, the BVM provides a means to ensure that oxygenation occurs and can stabilize the patient's condition until further treatment is administered. Using a BVM in these scenarios is critical to support ventilation and prevent hypoxia, making it a versatile tool for a range of emergencies that involve compromised respiratory function.