The connection between the breathing circuit and the patient should have the following features:

• Easily connected and removed.
• Not dislodged by movement of the patient.
• Gas-tight seal.
• Minimal dead-space.
• Minimal resistance to breathing.
• Atraumatic to the airway.
• Easily disinfected.

Depending on the nature and length of the procedure to be performed, one or more of the following may be used:

• Facemask
• Endotracheal tube
• Laryngeal mask

Facemasks