What is the preferred method for ventilating pediatric patients?

Using a bag-valve-mask (BVM) in conjunction with an oral or nasal airway is the preferred method for ventilating pediatric patients because it allows for positive pressure ventilation while reducing the risk of airway obstruction. Pediatric patients can be particularly challenging to manage because their airways are smaller and more easily compromised.

The BVM technique facilitates the delivery of oxygen-rich air to the lungs, which is crucial in cases of respiratory distress or failure. By incorporating an oral or nasal airway, the patency of the airway is maintained, thus helping to ensure that ventilation is effective. This combination is especially important in pediatrics, as they may not always have the same respiratory mechanics as adults.

Using solely an endotracheal tube can be more invasive and requires advanced skills that might not be necessary in all situations, especially if the child can be effectively managed with a BVM. High-flow oxygen masks alone do not provide adequate ventilation support, as they do not actively assist in moving air into the lungs. Ventilating only with compression techniques, while beneficial in certain scenarios (like CPR), does not supply the necessary ventilatory support that a BVM can offer when managing respiratory failure.