Oxygen therapy is administered to treat or prevent hypoxemia. Selecting the appropriate delivery system depends on the patient's oxygen requirements, comfort, and clinical condition.
Low-Flow Oxygen Systems
- Nasal Cannula: Flow rate 1-6 L/min, providing FiO2 of 24% to 44%. Safe, simple, and comfortable.
- Simple Face Mask: Flow rate 5-8 L/min, providing FiO2 of 40% to 60%. Must be set to at least 5 L/min to prevent rebreathing of CO2.
- Non-Rebreather Mask (NRB): Flow rate 10-15 L/min, providing FiO2 of 80% to 95%. Keep the reservoir bag inflated at all times.
High-Flow Oxygen Systems
- Venturi Mask: Flow rate 4-12 L/min, providing a precise, guaranteed FiO2 of 24% to 50%. The device of choice for COPD patients because it prevents CO2 narcosis by avoiding excess oxygen administration.
