Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Practice Exam

Which device is commonly used for bag-valve mask ventilation?

1. Oral airway

2. Nasal cannula

3. Endotracheal tube

4. Bag-valve-mask device

The correct answer is: Bag-valve-mask device

The bag-valve-mask device is specifically designed for providing positive pressure ventilation to patients who are not breathing adequately or require assistance with their breathing. It consists of a self-expanding bag, a unidirectional valve, and a facial mask that covers the patient’s nose and mouth. When the bag is squeezed, air is delivered directly into the patient's lungs through the mask, allowing for effective oxygenation and ventilation. This device is particularly invaluable in emergency situations, anesthesia induction, and in cases of respiratory distress as it enables healthcare providers to manually ventilate patients without the need for invasive airway management techniques. While oral airways, nasal cannulas, and endotracheal tubes play important roles in airway management and ventilation strategies, they serve different functions. Oral airways are used to maintain airway patency and prevent tongue obstruction, while nasal cannulas provide supplemental oxygen but do not facilitate manual ventilation. Endotracheal tubes are used for securing the airway in patients who require mechanical ventilation or are unable to breathe on their own; however, they are not used in the same manner as the bag-valve-mask device for immediate and manual ventilation interventions.