What Is the Silicone Adult Resuscitator?
The VM-RSSA, the Hi-Care RESSILA, is a premium silicone bag-valve-mask resuscitator for adult emergency ventilation. The 1700ml silicone bag delivers consistent, tactile feedback with each compression, as silicone retains its shape and elasticity reliably across the full operating temperature range and resists the deformation that can occur with PVC bags over repeated use. The size 5 adult mask provides the appropriate facial seal for adult patients, and the pressure relief valve prevents over-inflation injury to the airway.
Silicone Advantages in Resuscitation
Silicone is preferred over PVC in high-acuity resuscitation environments for several reasons: it is more durable, maintains consistent bag compliance over thousands of compressions, tolerates autoclave sterilisation, allowing multi-patient reuse, and its higher cost is offset by its significantly longer service life. The VM-RSSA’s 2700ml oxygen reservoir, versus 1700-2000ml in PVC versions, also delivers a higher oxygen concentration to the patient at equivalent flow rates, potentially improving oxygenation outcomes in arrest.
Component Compatibility and Availability in South Africa
The VM-RSSA includes a patient valve with pressure relief valve, a silicone bag, a reservoir valve and an oxygen reservoir. The mask #5 is the standard adult facial mask providing a seal over the nose and mouth. All components are compatible with standard oxygen delivery tubing, with 15L/min supplementary oxygen recommended for maximum FiO2. Available in South Africa from Vital Medical, and for a version supplied in a carry bag with additional masks, see VM-RSSASCP. Facilities can request a free quote through the Vital Medical website and receive a personalised response within 24 hours.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS TABLE
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Hi-Care |
| SKU | VM-RSSA |
| Model | RESSILA |
| Type | Manual BVM resuscitator – silicone – adult |
| Patient Size | Adult (>40kg) |
| Bag Volume | 1700ml (silicone) |
| Mask Size | #5 (Adult) |
| Oxygen Reservoir | 2700ml |
| Components | Patient valve with PLV, silicone bag, reservoir valve, O2 reservoir |
| Sterilisation | Autoclavable (silicone) |
| Operating Temp | -18°C to +50°C |
| Application | Adult CPR, emergency ventilation |
