RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Results
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Tidal volumes for neonatal, pediatric, adult, and AMBU configurations were 220±30, 310±40, 500±40, and 850±80 mL, respectively.
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Measured pressures were 30±6, 39±7, 56±11, and 133 ± 21 cm H2O for neonatal, pediatric, adult and AMBU bag configurations.
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Volume was not affected by the individual for pediatric, adult, and AMBU bag configurations but was present for the neonatal configuration (p=0.006).
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The individual affected pressure generated in pediatric and neonatal configurations but not adult and AMBU bag configurations.
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The variance in pressure and volume generated by AMBU bag configuration was significantly larger than that of the adult configuration of the prototype (p=0.001).
Discussion
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The prototype performed better than the AMBU bag at each configuration with less variance in volume and pressure.
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The large percent error between expected and experimental volume for neonatal and pediatric configurations and weight can be easily remedied by altering the volume control frame.
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Increasing flexibility with volume options would allow for more accurate treatment of patients in respiratory distress.
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Additional pressure relief valves or alterations to valve could better improve the pressure inputted into the system and prevent injuries.