Self-Inflating Bags and Bellows
A self-inflating bag (SIB) or bellows is used for controlled ventilation.
A paediatric self-inflating bag is helpful for children under 10 kg, but an adult SIB may be used; monitor chest movement (and end-tidal CO2, if available) to assess ventilation.
The Oxford Inflating Bellows (OIB) has an internal spring that keeps the bellows partially inflated and allows ventilation to be observed and monitored.
When using the OIB with a Laerdal/Ambu valve, always use the magnet to disable the downstream valve of the OIB (Fig 1 and Fig 2). This prevents an airlock between the two valves. If an airlock does occur, disconnect the patient to allow exhalation. Some anaesthetists remove the disc from the downstream valve of the OIB to prevent this happening.
The UAM incorporates a graduated bellows to facilitate use in patients of all ages (Fig 3).
