Intended for healthcare professionals

Research Article

Efficacy of facemask resuscitation at birth.

Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1984; 289 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.289.6458.1563 (Published 08 December 1984) Cite this as: Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1984;289:1563
  1. A D Milner,
  2. H Vyas,
  3. I E Hopkin

    Abstract

    The efficacy of facemask resuscitation was assessed by measuring the expiratory tidal volume during the first three inflations in nine babies with birth asphyxia and comparing the results with those obtained in a further nine babies resuscitated after endotracheal intubation. The facemask system was relatively inefficient, with tidal exchange less than one third of that seen after intubation and rarely sufficient to produce adequate alveolar ventilation. Successful resuscitation depended on stimulating the baby to make his own respiratory efforts.