A resuscitator generally speaking is a device using positive pressure to inflate the lungs of an unconscious person who is not breathing, with the hope of keeping them oxygenated and alive. There are two basic types: a manual version (also known as a bag mask) consisting of a mask and a large hand-squeezed plastic bulb using ambient air, and an oxygen version using a regulator to deliver oxygen from a high-pressure tank. While both require an operator to deliver air to the patient, the workings of modern resuscitators are arranged so that the patient will be able to breathe on their own on resuming the ability to do so.

Response Considerations

A manual resuscitator should be used on a victim only in an environment where the air is unquestionably safe to breathe.

Spelling

The misspelling rescuscitator is often encountered, due in no small part to the device being an important piece of rescue equipment.