7.3
Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
The human body requires oxygen to function, and when the natural process of respiration is hindered, external devices, including the following, are ne…
Oxygen-delivering devices such as nasal cannulas and face masks are used when natural breathing is obstructed.
Nasal cannulas are lightweight tubes with two prongs inserted into the nostrils.
They are typically used for low to medium oxygen levels with a suggested flow rate of 1-6 LPM, providing an oxygen concentration of approximately 24%- 44%, depending on the patient's breathing rate and flow setting.
Their advantages include comfort, ease of use, and allowing patient mobility for eating, drinking, and speaking.
Next, a simple face mask covers the nose and mouth, delivering a high oxygen concentration. Its suggested flow rate is 6-10 LPM, delivering about 35%-60% oxygen.
Lastly, a partial rebreather mask is a face mask with a reservoir bag, allowing the patient to rebreathe about one-third of exhaled air with the oxygen supply. Its flow rate is typically 6-15 LPM, delivering approximately 70%-90% oxygen.
Although partial rebreathing and face masks provide higher oxygen than nasal cannulas, the masks can be uncomfortable and restrict eating, drinking, and communication.
View the full transcript and gain access to JoVE Core videos
Q1: What is a nasal cannula and when is it used?
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube with two prongs inserted into the nostrils, used when natural breathing is obstructed. It delivers low to medium oxygen levels with a flow rate of 1-6 LPM, providing approximately 24%-44% oxygen concentration depending on the patient's breathing rate and flow setting.
Q2: What are the advantages of using a nasal cannula for oxygen delivery?
Nasal cannulas offer significant comfort and ease of use, allowing patients to maintain mobility while eating, drinking, and speaking. Their lightweight design and non-restrictive nature make them ideal for patients requiring low to medium oxygen levels who need to maintain normal daily activities.
Q3: How does a simple face mask differ from a nasal cannula?
A simple face mask covers the nose and mouth, delivering higher oxygen concentrations than a nasal cannula. It operates at 5-10 LPM flow rate, providing 40%-60% oxygen. However, masks are less comfortable and restrict eating, drinking, and communication compared to nasal cannulas.
Q4: What is a partial rebreather mask and how does it work?
A partial rebreather mask is a face mask with an attached reservoir bag that allows patients to rebreathe approximately one-third of exhaled air mixed with oxygen. Operating at 6-15 LPM, it delivers 70%-90% oxygen concentration, making it suitable for patients requiring high oxygen levels.
Q5: What oxygen concentration does each device deliver?
Nasal cannulas deliver 24%-44% oxygen at 1-6 LPM. Simple face masks provide 40%-60% oxygen at 5-10 LPM. Partial rebreather masks deliver the highest concentration at 70%-90% oxygen at 6-15 LPM. Selection depends on the patient's oxygen requirements and clinical condition.
Q6: What are the disadvantages of face masks compared to nasal cannulas?
Face masks can be uncomfortable and restrict patient mobility for eating, drinking, and communication. They require a tight seal to function effectively and may cause skin irritation or pressure sores with prolonged use, unlike the more comfortable and less restrictive nasal cannula.
Q7: What nursing responsibilities are essential when using oxygen delivery devices?
Nurses must monitor oxygen saturation levels, ensure proper device fit, and assess for signs of irritation or infection. For nasal cannulas, check nostrils regularly; for masks, verify proper seal and monitor for skin breakdown. Regular patient assessment ensures safe and effective oxygen delivery.