Oxygen concentrations from self-inflating resuscitation bags

The study was designed to determine the flow rate necessary to achieve adequate oxygen delivery from self-inflating resuscitation bags. When no reservoir was used the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) was between 0.5 and 0.6 for all flow rates greater than 7 liters/min. When self-inflating bags with oxygen reservoirs were tested, the FiO2 showed a consistent increase with increases in the flow rate from 0 to 15 liters/min flow. A flow rate of 10 liters/min was required to deliver an FiO2 of at least 0.8. Individuals should become thoroughly familiar with the equipment they select for use. Most will find it necessary to provide an oxygen flow of at least 10 to 12 liters/min to provide an oxygen concentration of at least 80%.