What flow rate is used with a bag valve mask (BVM)?

What flow rate is used with a bag valve mask (BVM)?

• A. 6-8 LPM
• B. 2-6 LPM
• C. 10-15 LPM
• D. 15 LPM

Answer: (D)

Bag valve mask therapy relies on a reservoir bag that feeds oxygen to the patient. To keep that reservoir full and deliver a consistent tidal volume with high oxygen concentration, a high flow rate is used. About 15 liters per minute is the standard setting because it reliably fills the reservoir and provides near-maximal FiO2 when the mask seal is good. If the flow is lower, the bag won’t stay inflated, ventilation quality drops, and the patient may receive room air instead of high-concentration oxygen. The other flow rates are more appropriate for different devices and would not guarantee adequate reservoir filling or high oxygen delivery with a BVM.

Bag valve mask therapy relies on a reservoir bag that feeds oxygen to the patient. To keep that reservoir full and deliver a consistent tidal volume with high oxygen concentration, a high flow rate is used. About 15 liters per minute is the standard setting because it reliably fills the reservoir and provides near-maximal FiO2 when the mask seal is good. If the flow is lower, the bag won’t stay inflated, ventilation quality drops, and the patient may receive room air instead of high-concentration oxygen. The other flow rates are more appropriate for different devices and would not guarantee adequate reservoir filling or high oxygen delivery with a BVM.