Expired air resuscitation is an essential part of first-aid and cannot be replaced by other measures. Because of the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, the use of devices is recommended. Three types are available—masks, tubes, and foils.

Six masks (Air-Vita Bi-Protect, Laerdal Pocket-mask, Dräger Hivita Mask E, Rescue-Med De-vice, Resuscitator, SealEasy Resuscitation Kit), five tube instruments (Dr. Brook Airway, Dual-Aid, Goettinger Tubus, Lifeway, Sussex Valve Airway), and two foils (Ambu Life-Key, Laerdal ResusdFace Shield) were studied.

Inspiratory and expiratory resistance, valve leakage, ability to protect against infection transmission, and practicability (e.g., possibility of training on standard mannequins, seal) were measured and tested in the laboratory.

Only a few of the mask and tube devices had low inspiratory and expiratory resistances. Some of the one-way valves failed. There were definite risks of provoking complications (vomiting, lacerations) when using tube instruments.

Devices consisting of a foil have definite advantages, and seem to be more appropriate for the use by first-aiders [first responders].