Resuscitators
A
resuscitator is a device using positive pressure to inflate the lungs of an
unconscious person who is not breathing, with the hope of keeping the person
oxygenated and alive. It forms one of the most essential parts of any
emergency kit. Resuscitators are usually made from silicon rubber and
autoclavable.
Types of resuscitators
Several types of resuscitators are in use in hospitals and healthcare units.
They are as follows:
- The automatic tank resuscitator: This consists of a face
mask that fits tightly over the nose and mouth. It is connected by a
tube to one or more tanks of gas. Through the action of automatic
valves, pressurized oxygen enters the mask. A second tank also exist
which contain carbon dioxide, small amounts of which are mixed with
oxygen, and it serves to activate the respiratory center in the
brain.
- The manual tank resuscitator: Manual Resuscitator also
known as a bag mask has a mask and a hand squeezed plastic bulb. The
ambient air is squeezed in to the mask through the bulb. Breathing
bag uses an oxygen source instead of air. It uses a regulator to
deliver oxygen from a high-pressure oxygen tank. This can directly
be attached to the breathing tube if it is in place. Unlike an
automatic tank resuscitators, here the oxygen flow is regulated by
the operator.
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Sizes
Resuscitators are available in various sizes. The standard size and capacity
is given below:
| Size |
Bellow Capacity Oxygen |
Reservoir Capacity |
| Adult |
1500ml. |
2600ml. |
| Child |
500ml. |
700ml. |
| Infant |
500ml. |
250ml. |
Resuscitators have simple and safe construction which make them suitable for
use in acute situations. The manual resuscitator is the most commonly used
ans also practical for routine use in hospitals such as during patient
transfer from OT to ICU or other departments or as a backup to ventilators
and anesthesia machines. The Manual Resuscitator usually has a ventilation
system for safety and ease of use. Most resuscitators are reusable and can
be sterilized by autoclaving.
