What is a typical sign that a self-inflating bag's valve may be stuck?

A self-inflating bag, commonly known as a bag-valve-mask (BVM), is designed to provide positive pressure ventilation to patients. When a valve in the self-inflating bag is stuck, one of the most distinct signs is that the bag exhibits stiffness and resistance to compression. This occurs because the air cannot flow properly into and out of the bag due to the valve malfunction, making the bag feel hard and difficult to compress.

In a normal functioning self-inflating bag, when you squeeze it, it readily compresses and then reinflates as it draws in air through the valve when released. However, if the valve is stuck, air does not enter the bag effectively after each compression, leading to the stiffness observed. This condition indicates a mechanical failure, necessitating immediate inspection or replacement of the equipment to ensure effective ventilation during emergency situations.

Other signs, such as the bag not inflating or overinflating, may also suggest issues with functionality, but the characteristic stiffness of a stuck valve is the most prominent and easily recognizable indicator among them. Hissing sounds typically indicate air leakage, which is a different issue than a stuck valve.