Tactical Combat Casualty Care – Combat Medic/Corpsman (TCCC‑CMC) Practice Test

The recommended duration for a slow steady squeeze during ventilation with a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) is 1-2 seconds. This timeframe allows for effective delivery of air while minimizing the risk of gastric inflation and potential complications. A slow and controlled squeeze helps ensure that the patient receives enough volume of air to inflate the lungs adequately without causing discomfort or distress.

Additionally, squeezing for 1-2 seconds strikes a balance between sufficient ventilation and the risk of over-ventilation, which can lead to increased intrathoracic pressure and reduced venous return to the heart. Understanding the importance of timing in ventilation is crucial for effective resuscitation and proper management of airway emergencies.

In comparison, durations shorter than 1 second may not allow for adequate lung expansion, while durations longer than 2 seconds could risk complications associated with excessive pressure and volumes. Therefore, the 1-2 second range is recommended for optimal ventilation effectiveness.