Comparison of one-handed face mask ventilation techniques on the simulation model: EO technique and EC technique

To compare the efficacy of two one-handed face mask ventilation techniques. Secondarily, we also assessed the effect of hand size on the performance of both these techniques.

Eighty subjects were randomized into the EO group and the EC group. After receiving face mask ventilation training, they carried out one-handed mask ventilation on a simulation model according to the order of EO technique-EC technique or EC technique-EO technique, and they performed each face mask ventilation technique for five consecutive ventilations. The primary outcomes were the time of the first chest undulation and the total number of chest undulations in the five operations. A questionnaire evaluated the subjects' feelings of simplicity and comfort regarding the two techniques.

Compared with the EC technique, the first success time was significantly shorter with the EO technique (17.69 ± 11.32 seconds vs 8.39 ± 8.08 seconds, P < 0.001), and the EO technique produced an improved successful ventilation rate (50.00% ± 33.89% vs 77.00% ± 28.84%, P < 0.001). For the EC technique, the first success time and successful ventilation rate of male subjects were better than those of female subjects (P < 0.05), whereas the first success time and successful ventilation rate in males and females did not significantly differ from each other for the EO technique (P > 0.5). Most subjects reported that the EO technique was simpler and more comfortable than the EC technique.

On the simulation model, compared to the one-handed EC face mask ventilation technique, the EO technique is more conducive to the learning and mastery of novices and small-handed operators.