In what scenario would you utilize a bag-valve-mask (BVM)?

Utilizing a bag-valve-mask (BVM) is essential in situations where a patient is apneic, meaning they are not breathing adequately or at all and require ventilatory support to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation. In this scenario, the BVM allows the healthcare provider to deliver positive pressure ventilation, which is crucial for patients who cannot breathe on their own.

The BVM is designed to create a seal around the patient's mouth and nose, allowing the rescuer to deliver air or oxygen directly into the lungs, thus facilitating respiration when the patient's natural ability to breathe is compromised. This is particularly critical in cases of severe respiratory failure or unconsciousness, where spontaneous breathing is absent, and immediate intervention is necessary to prevent hypoxia and potential brain injury due to lack of oxygen.

In contrast to the other scenarios provided, such as when a patient is breathing normally, showing mild respiratory distress, or is conscious but hypertensive, the BVM is not indicated. These situations do not require the immediate and urgent intervention of assisted ventilation that the BVM provides.