Small Compact Resuscitation Device Safely Used on Patient with COVID-19

emcrit.org April 13, 2020

A small compact and portable resuscitation ventilation device built by PRIMEDIC OXYLATOR, was safely used to treat a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia in the intensive care unit (ICU).

The Oxylator from Primedic is a combination between a bag-valve mask and a portable ventilator. Designed to be operated by either lay rescuers or EMS personnel, it is powered only by an oxygen cylinder, with no electricity required. This device basically acts as a pressure-controlled ventilator, leaving EMS personnel with free hands to take care of other life-savings tasks.

“The Oxylator provided swift preoxygenation to facilitate deep sedation on a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia in the ICU,” said James DuCanto, M.D., Anesthesiologist Milwaukee, Wisconsin USA who has experience using the Oxylator in resuscitation and routine anesthetic care.

A tight two handed mask seal ventilation technique was used with the device in “automatic mode” to minimize potential spread of aerosolized droplets. The device then supported ventilation while the respiratory therapist readied the ventilator for longer-term respiratory care.

Oxylators are oxygen powered resuscitation/inhalation devices, no electricity required. Oxygen, air, or a combination thereof can be delivered through the Oxylator to provide optimum care to patients requiring acute respiratory support. Oxylators may simplify airway management during emergencies and attended short-term ventilation during surge ventilation events.