FAQ for Airway Management

What is the use of the Ambu RDIC Resuscitator in polluted or toxic atmosphere characterized by?

As to ventilation in polluted or toxic atmosphere the Ambu RDIC Resuscitator (with the gas filter adapter for attachment of various standard gas filters) offers considerably better protection against penetration of various gases compared to resuscitators made of Silicone rubber.

The standard Ambu Mark III Resuscitator has an outer cover made of Chloroprene rubber providing excellent protection. The special Ambu RDIC Resuscitator, however, has an outer cover made of Butyl rubber providing optimal protection. 

Below is a table comparing penetration of selected gases in different rubber materials.

Penetration of gases in vulcanized material in 10-9 cm2 x sec. -1 x at-1 at 80 degrees C

Source: Walter Null - Chemie und Technologie der Silicone, Chapter 9, p. 446.

The above table shows that:

1) Chloroprene rubber offers better protection against penetration of gases compared to Silicone rubber.

2) Butyl rubber offers even better protection.

PEEP ventilation - can you explain something about that?

Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) is an integral part of respiratory treatment in a considerable range of critically ill patients of any age. It is indicated especially when adequate oxygenation cannot be achieved by employing intermittent positive pressure ventilation with high oxygen concentration. It is also indicated when the oxygen transfer is extremely bad such as during cardiopulmonary (CPR) resuscitation with a circulation being maintained entirely artificially and during resuscitation of nearly drowned patients with considerable shunt.