Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

What is the correct volume of air to deliver during BVM ventilations?

1. 500 ml

2. 700 ml

3. 900 ml

4. 1000 ml

The correct answer is: 700 ml

During Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) ventilations, the correct volume of air to deliver is approximately 700 ml per ventilation for adults. This volume is designed to effectively inflate the lungs while minimizing the risk of over-inflation, which can lead to complications such as gastric inflation or barotrauma. When providing positive pressure ventilation like BVM, it's crucial to ensure that enough air is delivered to create an adequate tidal volume, which typically ranges from 500 ml to 800 ml for most adults. However, 700 ml is often considered a safe and effective middle ground. Adjustments may be necessary based on individual patient needs, size, and clinical condition, but delivering around this volume is aligned with current BLS training protocols. This choice reflects the standard practice taught in BLS courses for ensuring the best outcomes during resuscitation efforts while protecting the patient from potential complications associated with excessive volumes of air.