Resuscitation bag (for use by patient on artificial respiration during power failure or other catastrophic event)
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Resuscitation Bag (S8999)
Common Name: Manual Resuscitator
Technical Term: Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) Resuscitation
Summary
A resuscitation bag is a hand-held device commonly used for patients who are on artificial respiration. It is a manual method to assist or provide ventilations during medical emergencies, especially when mechanical ventilators are unavailable, such as during a power failure or catastrophic event.
Purpose
The primary purpose of the resuscitation bag is to ensure that a patient continues to receive adequate ventilation and oxygenation during situations where mechanical ventilators fail or are inaccessible.
Indications
- Mechanical ventilator failure
- Power outages
- Respiratory arrest
- Emergency situations where immediate manual ventilation is required
Preparation
- Ensure the resuscitation bag and mask are readily accessible and in working order.
- No specific patient preparation is required for the use of a resuscitation bag.
Procedure Description
- Verify the device’s functionality, ensuring all components are intact and properly assembled.
- Ensure the patient is in the correct position, typically lying flat on their back.
- Seal the mask over the patient’s nose and mouth.
- Squeeze the bag to deliver breaths to the patient. Each squeeze should provide one breath, ensuring chest rise is visible.
- Monitor the patient’s oxygenation status and adjust the rate and volume of breaths as necessary.
Tools Used:
- Resuscitation bag (Bag-Valve-Mask)
- Oxygen supply (if available)
No anesthesia or sedation is required for this procedure.
Duration
The use of the resuscitation bag continues as long as mechanical ventilation support is unavailable. The duration varies based on the emergency situation and patient's needs.
Setting
This procedure can be performed in multiple settings including:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Ambulances
- Home care settings
Personnel
Healthcare providers involved may include:
- Nurses
- Respiratory therapists
- Emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
- Physicians
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Hyperventilation
- Inadequate ventilation
- Gastric inflation leading to aspiration
Rare Risks:
- Barotrauma (lung injury from excessive pressure)
Complications are managed by adjusting the ventilation technique and frequently monitoring the patient's status.
Benefits
The primary benefit is the preservation of life by maintaining oxygenation and ventilation in emergency situations. Benefits are realized immediately upon successful manual ventilation.
Recovery
No specific recovery process is associated with the use of a resuscitation bag. Continuous monitoring and care transition back to mechanical support are necessary once available.
Alternatives
- Mechanical ventilators
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
- Bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP)
Alternatives provide more consistent and automated ventilation but rely on electrical power and complex setups, making them unusable during power failures or certain emergencies.
Patient Experience
Patients generally experience relief from respiratory distress when ventilated effectively with a resuscitation bag. Conscious patients may feel discomfort due to the manual nature of ventilation. Pain management or sedation is typically unnecessary but discomfort is minimized by careful technique and reassurance.