During a pre-hospital resuscitation, the team is performing BVM ventilation on an adult patient. They notice gastric distension developing, which is r...

Question

During a pre-hospital resuscitation, the team is performing BVM ventilation on an adult patient. They notice gastric distension developing, which is reducing the effectiveness of ventilation. What is the most likely cause and how should it be managed?

Accepted Answer

Excessive ventilation volume or rate is inflating the stomach - reduce tidal volumes, slow the ventilation rate, and ensure correct head position; avoid attempting to decompress the stomach pre-hospital unless specifically trained

Answer

Apply firm abdominal pressure during ventilation to prevent further distension

Answer

The BVM is malfunctioning and needs replacement

Answer

Insert a nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach

Answer

Gastric distension is normal during BVM ventilation and requires no action

uk-dipimc MCQ (SBA): Gastric Distension During BVM

During a pre-hospital resuscitation, the team is performing BVM ventilation on an adult patient. They notice gastric distension developing, which is reducing the effectiveness of ventilation. What is the most likely cause and how should it be managed?