CPR pocket masks have an inflated tube that creates an airtight seal around the nose and mouth to help rescuers give breaths to victims of sudden cardiac arrest. There is a 1-way valve in the nozzle that lets air in and keeps you isolated from the patient's body fluids.
Some think that a CPR pocket mask is a waste of space in a first aid kit because in an emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation will work just fine, but personal protective equipment should not be underestimated.
Why Should you Use a CPR Mask?
During CPR the chest compressions squeeze the stomach, and it’s common for patients to vomit by reflex. CPR pocket masks have a one-way valve that stops vomit, blood, and body fluids in their tracks, keeping your mouth isolated and vomit-free.
For a travel or portable first aid kit, a CPR mask is probably unnecessary, but a foldable plastic barrier sheet takes up almost no space and provides the same function for a single use.
Medical professionals and those who have a fully equipped house bag should consider having a CPR mask.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Protects rescuer from body fluids like vomit. Covers both the nose and the mouth, so the rescuer doesn't have to pinch the nose during breaths
- Cons: Larger than a foldable plastic barrier. Not used often
How to Use a CPR Mask
- Place the mask over the patient's nose and mouth with the narrow end over the nose.
- Create an airtight seal by pressing the inflated bag tight to the skin.
- Tilt the patient's head back using the head-tilt chin lift maneuver to open the airway.
- Give rescue breaths through the 1-way valve.
- If you do not have a barrier device and need to perform CPR, compressions only CPR is recommended, especially if you are not trained to give breaths.
- You can practice how to perform CPR using a CPR manikin or dummy.