ABOUT
Background
The bag valve mask (BVM) is a hand-held device that is used to deliver oxygen to patients who are unresponsive, not breathing, or breathing inadequately. Current BVMs are broken down into different sizes (neonatal, pediatric, adult) and require two people to be operated more effectively. Performance is heavily affected by the user, seal of the mask, input volume, pressure, and flow rate. For effective and safe use, the BVM is expected to provide a tidal volume of 6 mL/kg4, peak inspiratory pressure of less than 20 cm H2O5, and flow rate of 2 seconds per breath.
Problem Statement
Emergency personnel need a way to effectively and efficiently provide oxygen to patients in respiratory distress to temporarily respire for the patient.
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Objective
To redesign the BVM to:
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Improve device reliability and thus patient safety by maintaining pressure, volume, and flow rate under a certain threshold
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Decrease the difficulty in using the device
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Increase versatility in the use of the devices
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Focus on patient compatibility in comfort and sterility