resuscitator (rĭsŭsˈĭtāˌtər) [key], device used to revive a
person whose normal breathing has been disrupted. Several types
are in wide use. The automatic tank resuscitator consists of a
face mask that fits tightly over the nose and mouth and is
connected by a tube to one or more tanks of gas. Pressurized
oxygen enters the mask through the action of automatic valves. A
second tank may contain carbon dioxide, small amounts of which
are mixed with oxygen, serving to activate the respiratory
center in the brain. In a similar device, the manual tank
resuscitator, the oxygen flow is regulated by the operator. The
self-inflating, bag-mask resuscitator consists of an airtight
mask that fits over the nose and mouth, a self-inflating bag,
and often an oxygen tube connector. When the bag is squeezed,
air or oxygen enters the patient's lungs. The bag inflates
automatically when released. Air from the lungs leaves the mask
by an escape valve without returning to the bag. The Columbia
Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copy