A breathing barrier is a specialized piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) used during rescue breathing, a component of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This device creates a physical shield between the person administering aid and the patient, allowing the rescuer to safely deliver air into the patient’s lungs. Its primary role is to ensure the safety of both individuals during a medical emergency while facilitating effective ventilation. The barrier is an established standard in first aid protocols for trained professionals and lay rescuers alike.
Why Barriers Are Essential
The purpose of using a breathing barrier is to mitigate the risk of cross-contamination and the transmission of infectious diseases during mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Direct delivery of a breath exposes the rescuer to the patient’s bodily fluids, such as saliva, blood, or vomit. This contact allows pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, to pass from the patient to the rescuer.
Most barriers incorporate a one-way valve, a mechanical feature that enforces uni-directional airflow. This valve allows the rescuer’s exhaled air to pass to the patient’s lungs but immediately closes against any air or fluid attempting to flow back. The device prevents “blowback” of the patient’s exhaled air or respiratory droplets, offering protection without compromising the ability to deliver oxygen. This defense encourages bystanders to act in an emergency, as the fear of disease transmission often deters providing rescue breaths.
Distinct Types of Breathing Barriers
Breathing barriers fall into two main categories, suited for different environments and levels of training: pocket masks and face shields.
Pocket Masks
The pocket mask is a semi-rigid, dome-shaped device designed to fit securely over the patient’s mouth and nose. These masks provide a consistent and effective seal due to their firm structure and often include an inflatable rim for a better fit. Professional rescuers commonly use pocket masks because they are reusable after disinfection and sometimes feature a port for connecting supplemental oxygen.
Face Shields
The face shield is sometimes known as a keychain barrier due to its compact portability. This barrier consists of a thin, transparent plastic sheet placed over the patient’s face, covering the mouth and nose. A small filter or a one-way valve is centrally located on the sheet, positioned over the patient’s mouth. Face shields are disposable and often folded into a small pouch, making them convenient for the general public to carry for immediate access.
Steps for Effective Barrier Use
Proper deployment of a breathing barrier begins with ensuring the scene is safe, followed by laying the patient flat on their back. The rescuer must quickly open the patient’s airway, typically using the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver to move the tongue away from the throat. The barrier device is then placed over the patient’s face, ensuring the opening or valve aligns with the patient’s mouth and nose.
When using a pocket mask, the rescuer must hold the device firmly with both hands to create an airtight seal around the edges. A common technique involves placing the thumb and index finger of each hand on the rim while using the remaining fingers to lift the patient’s jaw. After the seal is confirmed, the rescuer delivers two slow, steady breaths through the valve, watching for the chest to visibly rise. This ensures air enters the lungs effectively while maintaining protective separation.