Objective: To assess possible alterations in the tidal volume and peak inspiratory pressure delivered by seven models of manually operated self-inflating resuscitation bags as a function of the oxygen supply rate used.
Methods: The resuscitation bags tested were the following: Oxigel, models A and B; CE Reanimadores; ProtecSolutions; Missouri; Axmed; and Narcosul. For the measurements, a wall oxygen flow meter, a flow meter/respirometer, a resuscitation bag, a sensor (Tracer 5 unit), and a test lung were connected. In addition, the Tracer 5 unit was connected to a notebook computer. Oxygen supply rates of 1, 5, 10, and 15 L/min were used.
Results: The tidal volume delivered by the Oxigel model A resuscitation bag when receiving oxygen at a rate of 15 L/min was approximately 99% greater than that delivered when receiving oxygen at a rate of 1 L/min. Similarly, peak inspiratory pressure was approximately 155% greater. Under the same conditions, the tidal volume delivered by the Narcosul resuscitation bag was 48% greater, and peak inspiratory pressure was 105% greater. The remaining resuscitation bags tested showed no significant alterations in the tidal volume or peak inspiratory pressure delivered.
Conclusions: Under the resistance and compliance conditions used, the resuscitation bags in which the oxygen inflow is directly to the interior of the bag had the patient valve stuck at the inspiratory position when receiving oxygen at a rate >or= 5 L/min, significantly increasing the tidal volume and peak inspiratory pressure delivered. This did not occur with the resuscitation bags in which the oxygen inflow is directed to the exterior of the bag.