3. A Hierarchy of Artificial Respiration Techniques: A Guide for Policy and Provisioning

The choice of which artificial respiration technique to employ is a key policy decision that impacts training protocols and equipment provisioning. The appropriate method depends on the first aider’s level of training, the availability of equipment, and the specific context of the emergency. Policy should reflect a clear hierarchy of techniques, progressing from basic life support accessible to all employees to more advanced methods for trained professionals.

1. Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation

This is the most fundamental and universally applicable technique, requiring no specialized equipment. The first aider delivers their own breath directly into the victim’s mouth. While its primary advantage is immediate availability in any situation, its main drawback from a policy perspective is the lack of a hygienic barrier between the responder and the victim.

1. Mouth-to-Nose Resuscitation

This technique serves as a critical alternative for specific contingencies, such as when the victim has suffered a severe mouth injury or their jaw is clenched shut. The first aider delivers breaths through the victim’s nose. Training protocols must include this method to ensure responders are prepared for situations where the primary mouth-to-mouth technique is not viable.

1. Mouth-to-Mask Resuscitation

This method should be considered the recommended standard for all designated workplace first aiders. It involves using a single-use resuscitation mask that covers the victim’s mouth and nose, with a one-way valve for the responder to breathe through. Its key advantage is providing a robust hygienic barrier that significantly reduces the risk of disease transmission, thereby increasing a responder’s willingness to act decisively in an emergency.

1. Bag-Valve-Mask (Ambu Bag) Resuscitation

This is an advanced technique reserved for designated and highly trained professional first aid teams or on-site medical personnel. An “Ambu bag” is a manual resuscitator that is squeezed to deliver air to the victim through a mask. It is more effective than other methods at delivering a high volume of oxygen and represents a higher level of care.

1. Mechanical Ventilation (Hospital-Level Care)

This automated method is used exclusively by medical professionals in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or ambulance. It represents the endpoint of care that workplace first aid initiates, providing controlled, long-term respiratory support. Its inclusion in policy documents serves to clarify the boundary between on-site first aid and professional medical intervention.

Having established an overview of the available techniques, it is essential to mandate a single, standardized procedure that all first aiders must master to ensure a consistent and effective response.