What is the best practice for ensuring effective ventilation with a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM)?

Using both hands to hold the mask and ensure a tight seal is considered the best practice for effective ventilation with a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM). Achieving a proper seal is crucial because it minimizes air leakage, allowing for more efficient delivery of breaths to the patient. When the mask is held securely over the patient's nose and mouth, it not only decreases the risk of air escaping but also ensures that the breaths being delivered are effectively entering the patient's lungs. This technique maximizes ventilation effectiveness and is essential for delivering adequate oxygen, especially in emergency situations where every second counts.

By contrast, holding the bag with one hand can make it difficult to properly maintain a seal, especially during the delivery of breaths. Allowing a patient to self-ventilate is typically not possible in cases requiring BVM usage, as these patients are often unable to breathe adequately on their own. Positioning the mask over the mouth only neglects the importance of covering the nose, which can result in less effective ventilation, particularly in patients with larger anatomical features or specific airway concerns.