What is the most effective method for using a bag-valve-mask device?

Using a bag-valve-mask (BVM) device is most effectively done with two first responders working together. This approach allows for a more secure seal on the patient's face, which is critical for effective ventilation. One responder can hold the mask in place, ensuring that it is properly aligned over the patient’s nose and mouth to minimize air leaks. The second responder can then squeeze the bag to deliver breaths, providing more consistent and controlled ventilation.

This technique significantly enhances the effectiveness of delivering positive pressure ventilation, as it minimizes the risk of air escaping around the mask, a common issue when one person tries to manage both tasks simultaneously. When two responders work together, they can coordinate their actions better, resulting in improved patient outcomes.

Using a BVM with one responder can lead to challenges in maintaining a proper seal, especially under stress or during emergencies. Other options, such as using the BVM in conjunction with a pocket or specifically for pediatric patients, do not address the pressing need for effective sealing and airflow that two-person technique provides, making the two-responder method the superior choice in most scenarios.