What Is a Manual Resuscitator?

A bag valve mask, sometimes known by the proprietary name Ambu bag or generically as a manual resuscitator or "self-inflating bag", is a hand-held device commonly used to provide positive pressure ventilation to patients who are not breathing or not breathing adequately.

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.

What is the function of a manual resuscitator?

A manual resuscitator bag is used to provide air by hand, if your patient is not breathing. The bag can also be used to give large breaths after suctioning, a trach change or when a ventilator circuit is being changed. The bag must always be near your patient in case of an emergency.