Which device delivers high concentration oxygen at about 15 L/min and is used for rapid oxygen delivery?

Which device delivers high concentration oxygen at about 15 L/min and is used for rapid oxygen delivery?

• A. Nonrebreathing mask
• B. Bag-valve mask
• C. Nasal cannula
• D. Simple face mask

Answer: (A)

Delivering a high concentration of oxygen quickly to a patient who is breathing on their own is best achieved with a nonrebreathing mask. This device has a reservoir bag and one-way valves that prevent exhaled air from entering the airflow, so most of what the patient inhales comes from the oxygen in the reservoir. When connected to oxygen at a high flow (about 10–15 L/min) and fitted well, it can provide a very high FiO2, approaching 90–100%, making it ideal for rapid oxygenation in hypoxic patients or those in distress. Nasal cannulas deliver oxygen at lower flow rates and lower FiO2 (roughly 24–44%), so they’re not suitable for rapid, high-concentration needs. Simple face masks provide moderate FiO2 (around 35–60%) but at lower flow and with more dilution by room air. Bag-valve masks can deliver very high oxygen concentrations, but they’re primarily used for ventilation or assisted ventilation rather than simply delivering oxygen quickly to a spontaneously breathing patient.

Delivering a high concentration of oxygen quickly to a patient who is breathing on their own is best achieved with a nonrebreathing mask. This device has a reservoir bag and one-way valves that prevent exhaled air from entering the airflow, so most of what the patient inhales comes from the oxygen in the reservoir. When connected to oxygen at a high flow (about 10–15 L/min) and fitted well, it can provide a very high FiO2, approaching 90–100%, making it ideal for rapid oxygenation in hypoxic patients or those in distress.

Nasal cannulas deliver oxygen at lower flow rates and lower FiO2 (roughly 24–44%), so they’re not suitable for rapid, high-concentration needs. Simple face masks provide moderate FiO2 (around 35–60%) but at lower flow and with more dilution by room air. Bag-valve masks can deliver very high oxygen concentrations, but they’re primarily used for ventilation or assisted ventilation rather than simply delivering oxygen quickly to a spontaneously breathing patient.