What is
manual resuscitation?
Manual resuscitation is a form of artificial
respiration that uses a breathing bag (manual resuscitator) to
assist patients with breathing. It is usually used when the
lungs
are not functioning properly. The breathing bag is filled with
oxygen and is squeezed by hand by the doctor, nurse or respiratory
therapist. You may also hear the members of the
ICU
staff refer to the breathing bag as an
Ambu
bag. Once squeezed, the bag self-inflates. One end of the bag is
attached to an oxygen source and the other end to a
facemask or
breathing tube.
How long is manual resuscitation used?
This device is used only for short periods of time. If help with
breathing is needed for more than a few minutes, a
breathing machine (mechanical
ventilator) is used in place of the manual resuscitator.
Does manual resuscitation hurt?
No. The patient can sense the air being pushed into the
lungs,
but it should not hurt.
Are there any potential complications
associated with manual resuscitation?
Sometimes gas is pushed into the
esophagus and stomach, causing abdominal swelling during use of
a manual resuscitator.
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Breathing bag (manual resuscitator) |
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Manual Resuscitation 
