The Right Breath at the Right Time: Choosing Manual vs. Mechanical Ventilation in EMS

This presentation examines how ventilation strategy influences outcomes in cardiac arrest, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and opioid-related respiratory failure, three of the most high-risk EMS scenarios. Using the hierarchy of intervention effectiveness as a framework, we will explore the clinical, operational, and educational considerations driving the choice between manual and mechanical ventilation. Participants will review current evidence on ventilation performance, common pitfalls, and system-level barriers that can impact patient outcomes. Through case-based discussion, we will compare the strengths and limitations of each method and provide practical recommendations for different environments, including rural, resource-limited, and high-volume systems. Attendees will leave with strategies to improve ventilation consistency, reduce preventable harm, and ensure their teams are delivering the right breath at the right time.