What are signs of effective ventilation with a BVM?

• A. Visible chest rise, bilateral breath sounds, improved SpO2/ETCO2, ease of bag compression
• B. No chest rise
• C. Unchanged SpO2 and ETCO2
• D. High resistance during bag squeeze with no chest rise

Answer: (A)

Effective ventilation with a bag-valve-mask shows that air is actually getting into the lungs and exchanging gases. Visible chest rise means air is entering and filling the lungs rather than just moving the chest wall. Bilateral breath sounds indicate both lungs are being ventilated, not just one side. Improvements in SpO2 and ETCO2 demonstrate better oxygenation and CO2 elimination, reflecting real gas exchange. Easy bag compression suggests the airway is open with a good seal and no major obstruction. When these signs are present, ventilation is working well. In contrast, no chest rise, no change in SpO2/ETCO2, or heavy resistance with no chest rise all point to ineffective ventilation or a blocked airway.