What percentage of oxygen can a BVM with reservoir and attached O2 deliver?

A Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) device with a reservoir and attached oxygen can effectively deliver up to 90% oxygen concentration to a patient. The reservoir bag collects supplemental oxygen from the supply, which, when squeezed, allows for a higher concentration of oxygen to be delivered with each ventilation than when using a BVM without a reservoir.

When properly used, the BVM can achieve this level of oxygenation because the combination of the reservoir and the elevated flow of oxygen (usually set at 15 liters per minute or more) fills the reservoir and ensures that the air mixed with significant amounts of oxygen is delivered to the patient.

This is crucial in emergency situations where maximizing oxygen delivery can significantly influence patient outcomes, especially in cases of respiratory distress or cardiac arrest. Therefore, with the proper setup and technique, achieving nearly 100% oxygen delivery is possible; however, the standard expectation in typical use is up to about 90%, making this the correct focus when discussing BVM effectiveness with reservoir support.