When using a pocket mask, the rescuer should be positioned kneeling directly behind or beside the victim's head, depending on the guidance source, to ensure effective airway management and ventilation.
- The American Heart Association and American Red Cross recommend the rescuer kneel beside the victim’s chest rather than above their head. This position allows the rescuer to perform the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver easily with both hands, create a proper seal with the mask, avoid blocking the airway, and observe chest rise during ventilation
- Alternatively, some guidelines indicate kneeling behind the victim’s head (especially if the victim is lying supine) to maintain control of the airway and ensure the mask is securely placed over the nose and mouth. This position also allows the rescuer to use the EC-clamp technique effectively to hold the mask and lift the jaw
- The rescuer uses both hands to hold the mask firmly on the victim’s face, employing the EC-clamp technique (forming a "C" with thumb and index finger on the mask and "E" with other fingers lifting the jaw), while performing a head-tilt/chin-lift to open the airway
- Proper positioning maximizes ventilation effectiveness, airway access, and rescuer comfort, which are critical for high-quality CPR and increasing the victim’s survival chances
In summary, the rescuer should kneel either beside the victim’s chest or directly behind the victim’s head, facing the victim’s face, to properly manage the airway and deliver rescue breaths using the pocket mask. The key is to maintain a stable position that allows a tight mask seal, proper airway opening, and observation of chest rise during ventilation. References:
