What is the primary risk associated with bag-mask ventilation?

The primary risk associated with bag-mask ventilation is inadequate ventilation leading to hypoxia or respiratory distress. This risk arises mainly from several factors, including poor seal between the mask and the patient's face, improper technique in delivering breaths, or anatomical issues that hinder adequate airflow. If ventilation is inadequate, the patient may not receive enough oxygen, resulting in hypoxia, which can lead to further complications such as respiratory distress or cardiac arrest.

While the other risks mentioned, such as hypotension, pneumothorax, and infection, are important to consider in the context of airway management, they are secondary concerns when focusing specifically on the act of bag-mask ventilation itself. The primary goal of this intervention is to ensure effective delivery of oxygen, and any failure to accomplish that can lead to immediate and critical issues for the patient. Therefore, understanding and mitigating the risks of inadequate ventilation is essential for ensuring patient safety during this procedure.