Lightning Learning: Oxygen Delivery Devices
STOP!
NASAL CANNULAE: low flow O2 delivery device (0.5-6 L/min). Higher flows (>4 L/min) make it uncomfortable for the patient.
VENTURI MASK: designed to entrain a set amount of O2 and air, which combine to produce a set flow of O2 (the % stated on the venturi).
It is NOT the L/min stated on the venturi that is delivered to the patient.
NON-REBREATHER MASK: only use flows 10-15 L/min. If lower O2 flows are used the bag can deflate during inspiration; a lower concentration of O2 will be delivered and the patient can re-breathe CO2.
LOOK
NASAL CANNULAE: for patients that require low flow O2 to maintain saturations. More comfortable than a mask – does not restrict vision or mouth.
VENTURI MASK: for patients that required a fixed amount of O2, e.g. COPD where too much O2 can be dangerous. Makes weaning O2 easier – the venturi can be changed to reduce O2 in a stepwise way.
NON-REBREATHER MASK: for patients with low O2 saturations requiring high flow rates. Do not use long term as can cause complications such as O2 toxicity and reabsorption atelectasis.
