What device is commonly used to provide positive pressure ventilation to a newborn?

The bag-mask ventilation device is commonly used to provide positive pressure ventilation to a newborn because it effectively delivers oxygen directly into the lungs during resuscitation efforts. This device consists of a self-expanding bag and a face mask that fits over the newborn’s mouth and nose, allowing for a controlled amount of air or oxygen to be manually squeezed into the lungs.

This method is particularly important in neonatal resuscitation when the newborn is not breathing adequately on their own or requires additional support to establish effective ventilation. The bag-mask ventilation technique can be quickly initiated and is essential for stabilizing the infant's condition, ensuring adequate oxygenation until further medical interventions can be carried out if necessary.

In contrast, options like the endotracheal tube are more invasive and typically reserved for situations where prolonged ventilation support is needed or where bag-mask ventilation is ineffective. The oropharyngeal airway serves to maintain an open airway but does not provide ventilation itself, and the nasal cannula is primarily used for supplemental oxygen rather than positive pressure ventilation. Thus, the bag-mask ventilation device is the preferred choice for immediate respiratory support in newborns.