Mask ventilation

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