Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2025

Laryngeal Mask Airway LMA Placement in a Neonatal Patient Simulator Using a Non-Inflatable Supraglottic Airway SGA
Published on: July 14, 2023
Relationship between applied face mask force and mask leak during simulated neonatal ventilation: a randomised
Jacqueline Hannan1, Gary Weiner2, Leia Stirling3,4
1Industrial and Operations Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA jhannan@umich.edu.
Objective:
Assess the relationship between applied face mask force and leak during simulated ventilation using different ventilating devices and mask holds.
Design:
Randomised cross-over simulation study.
Setting:
Quiet, non-clinical room in children's hospital.
Participants:
Twenty-four experienced neonatal healthcare providers.
Interventions:
Ventilate a manikin for 2 min per trial, each with three trial conditions: self-inflating bag (SIB) with one-hand hold, T-piece with one-hand hold, T-piece with two-hand hold.
Main Outcome Measures:
Applied force (newtons (N)) measured under the head and at four locations on the manikin's face (nasal bridge, mentum, left and right zygomatic arches), force asymmetry applied to the mask rim, and mask leak.
Results:
Under-head force was greatest using the SIB with one-hand hold (mean (SD) 20.53 (5.87) N) and least using the T-piece with one-hand hold (mean (SD) 17.58 (6.11) N). While mask leak was reduced with increasing force, leak-free ventilation was achieved by some participants in all trial conditions with low (<10 N) under-head force. Force asymmetry on the manikin's face was similar using a one-hand hold compared with a two-hand hold. With both holds, forces were greater on the side of the face corresponding to the operator's non-dominant hand.
Conclusion:
Applied force and leak varied between devices and mask holds. Force asymmetry was present with both mask holds. Leak-free ventilation could be achieved with small forces using either an SIB or T-piece and either mask hold. Force feedback during training may improve the effectiveness and safety of neonatal ventilation.
Related Concept Videos
Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
Nasal Cannula
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split at one end into two prongs and placed in the nostrils. It is typically used to deliver low to medium levels of oxygen.
Suggested flow rate: The suggested flow rate for a nasal cannula typically ranges between 1 and 6 L/min.
Oxygen percentage setting:...
Administering Oxygen by Mask
Administering oxygen by mask is a common nursing intervention that provides supplemental oxygen to patients with respiratory distress or chronic lung conditions. This procedure involves delivering oxygen at a specified rate through a face mask connected to an oxygen source.
Equipment
The equipment necessary for this procedure includes:
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
Pressure Relationships in Thoracic Cavity
Breathing Mechanisms
Both intra-alveolar and intrapleural pressures rely on specific lung properties. The ability to breathe—allowing air to enter the lungs...

