Definition
A handheld resuscitation device consisting of a self-inflating bag, a one-way valve, and a face mask, used to deliver positive-pressure ventilation to a person who is not breathing adequately on their own.
Plain English
A squeeze-bag with a mask that fits over someone's nose and mouth, used to push air into their lungs when they can't breathe properly by themselves.
Context Anchor
Seen in first-aid discussions for smoke, fumes, chemical exposure, or any emergency where a person may need breathing support until medical help arrives.
Derivation
Named directly for its three parts: the bag (squeezed by hand), the valve (lets air go one way only), and the mask (seals over the face). Sometimes called an Ambu bag, after the company that first produced one.
Why Pilots Care
Provides immediate airway support when toxic fumes or chemicals impair breathing and aircraft oxygen systems are unavailable or unsuitable.
Intuition Check
Do not think of it as just a mask. The bag-valve-mask is a device that actively gives breaths when the bag is squeezed.
Example Sentence 1
After the passenger collapsed, the flight attendant retrieved the bag-valve-mask from the medical kit and began ventilations.
Example Sentence 2
The emergency kit contained a bag-valve-mask for use after a forced landing involving respiratory distress.