What should be used for positive pressure ventilation (PPV) if mechanical devices are unavailable?

The appropriate method for providing positive pressure ventilation (PPV) when mechanical devices are not available is to use mouth-to-mouth and nose breathing. This technique can ensure that air is delivered into the infant’s lungs, which is critical in a resuscitation scenario. Although this method may not provide the same effectiveness as using a bag-mask device, it can be a life-saving intervention when no other equipment is accessible.

Using mouth-to-mouth and nose breathing ensures that oxygen reaches the newborn, which is essential for reversing hypoxia. During neonatal resuscitation, it's vital to have a functioning airway and adequate ventilation, which makes this option viable when standard equipment is unavailable.

The other options, while useful in different contexts, do not serve the same purpose when mechanical devices are out of reach. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices are designed to maintain airway pressure and would not be applicable in the absence of equipment. Rescue breathing with a bag-mask requires a functioning bag-mask apparatus, and suctioning the airway is aimed at clearing obstructions rather than providing positive pressure ventilation.