New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

Which ventilation device is MOST effective for a single rescuer during CPR?

1. NRB

2. Pocket mask with oxygen

3. Flow-restricted, oxygen-powered ventilation device (FROPVD)

4. BVM without oxygen

The correct answer is: Pocket mask with oxygen

The pocket mask with oxygen is considered the most effective ventilation device for a single rescuer during CPR due to its balance of effectiveness, portability, and ease of use. When performing CPR, the rescuer needs to provide effective positive pressure ventilation, and the pocket mask allows for a good seal around the patient's mouth while enabling the rescuer to deliver breaths. Using a pocket mask, especially when supplemented with supplemental oxygen, ensures a higher concentration of oxygen is delivered to the patient, increasing the chances of successful ventilation and improving outcomes in a cardiac arrest situation. The ability to use a one-way valve reduces the risk of viral transmission and provides a degree of safety for the rescuer while still allowing for proper ventilation. Other devices, like the BVM (Bag-Valve-Mask), while very effective in providing oxygen, typically require two rescuers for optimal usage—one to maintain the mask seal and another to squeeze the bag. This means that in a one-rescuer scenario, a pocket mask gives the advantage of being more manageable without compromising the quality of ventilation. Additionally, devices like the FROPVD may not be as suitable in a single rescuer’s context due to their complexity and need for proper ongoing training. Therefore, the pocket mask with oxygen strikes