How to Use an Ambu Bag: Parts, Types, Sizes, Uses & Price

Imagine a situation where someone is struggling to breathe, and the hospital is far away. You don’t have much time, and the patient can’t breathe properly on their own. The first thing to do is stay calm, as panicking will only waste precious time. Immediate action is required to provide oxygen.

In such cases, an Ambu Bag can be used as an alternative to a ventilator. It provides artificial ventilation to patients who are having difficulty breathing, helping them get the oxygen they need until professional medical help arrives.

It is important for both healthcare professionals and ordinary people to know about the Ambu Bag, as emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere. In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about the Ambu Bag—its uses, types, parts, and how to use it effectively in critical situations.

Fact: A BVM (Ambu bag) is a manual resuscitator that delivers positive pressure ventilation to patients unable to breathe adequately on their own.

What Is an Ambu Bag? Understanding Its Purpose and Function

Ambu Bag also known as bag valve mask (BVM), manual resuscitator, self-inflating bag is a small portable medical device used to provide breath to those who find breathing difficult.

Artificial Manual Breathing Unit is the full form of ambu bag. It operates by compressing the bag, forcing air into the patient's lungs, and then allowing the bag to refill for the next compression. This process ensures continuous ventilation until spontaneous breathing is restored or advanced airway management is implemented.

What Are the Different Types of Ambu Bags?

Ambu bags comes in different-different types according to the patient.
1. Adult Ambu Bag

It is designed for adults with a volume capacity of 1500–1600 ml. Suitable for patient above 40 kg of weight

2. Pediatric Ambu Bag

It is a small bag with a smaller volume capacity of 500–600 ml. Best for children with 10 - 40 kg. These often have a pressure-relief valve.

3. Infant Ambu Bag

It is for the newborn or infant and comes in 240ml volume capacity to ensure safe ventilation. It is for babies upto 10 kg of weight.

4. Transport Ambu Bag

It is compact and lightweight, and is ideal for patient transport scenarios. Its design facilitates ease of use during patient movement.

5. Anesthesia Ambu Bag

It is designed for use during anesthesia procedures, often includes features to deliver controlled ventilation. It is compatible with anesthesia machines and endotracheal tubes.

6. Reusable vs. Disposable Ambu Bags

Reusable Ambu Bags: It is made from durable materials, can be sterilized and reused multiple times, making them cost-effective in the long term.
Disposable Ambu Bags: It is designed for single-use, reduces the risk of cross-contamination and is ideal for emergency situations where sterilization is not feasible.

Warning: An adult bag on an infant may deliver too much volume, or be too difficult to control

What Are the Key Parts of an Ambu Bag?

It is important to know the parts of an ambu bag before using it.

Self-Inflating Bag: The main component that, when compressed, delivers air to the patient.
Unidirectional Valve: Ensures air flows in one direction, preventing exhaled gases from entering the bag.
Face Mask or Endotracheal Tube Connector: It provides the interface between the Ambu Bag and the patient's airway.
Oxygen Reservoir Bag: Allows for higher oxygen concentrations during ventilation.
Pressure-Limiting Valve: Prevents excessive pressure delivery, reducing the risk of barotrauma.

When is Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) Ventilation Indicated?

Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) ventilation is critical in various medical emergencies to ensure oxygenation and ventilation. Understanding the specific indications for its use is essential for healthcare providers to act promptly and effectively.

Indications for BVM Ventilation:

Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure: Elevated carbon dioxide levels with reduced oxygenation.
Hypoxic Respiratory Failure: Low oxygen levels with near-normal carbon dioxide levels.
Apnea: Cessation of breathing.
Altered Mental Status with Impaired Airway Protection: Inability to protect the airway due to altered consciousness.
Anesthesia during Elective Surgical Procedures: Used to maintain oxygenation and ventilation during surgery.
Cardiac Arrest: To provide ventilation during resuscitation efforts.

How to Use an Ambu Bag Effectively?.

It is very easy to use as it is a manual resuscitator device.

Place the patient on their back on a firm surface.
Choose a bag that matches the patient's age and size.
Connect the reservoir to provide higher oxygen concentrations.
Ensure a tight seal to prevent air leakage.
Squeeze the bag to deliver a breath, watching for chest rise.
Observe the patient's response and adjust ventilation accordingly.

Tip: The two‑person technique enhances mask seal, reduces air leaks, and minimizes rescuer fatigue during bag‑valve‑mask ventilation.

What Is the Price Range of Ambu Bags in India?

The cost of an ambu bag depends on the size, feature, and brand.

Basic models best budget-friendly options suitable for general use.
Feature enhanced durability and additional components.
High-quality materials, advanced features, and brand reputation.

Pro Tip: You can purchase ambu bag of verified brand at an affordable price only in India at SurgiNatal

Conclusion

An ambu bag is a life saving device in an emergency to provide proper and effective ventilation to the patient. Before using it you not only ensure proper size and quality but also how you use it with a sealed mask and two people to operate correctly with ventilation rates gentle and controlled.

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