Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen

A Venturi mask uses the Venturi effect to control oxygen delivery. The large tube narrows at the oxygen inlet, creating a pressure drop that pulls air through adjustable side ports. This mechanism allows nurses to change the entrainment device to deliver FiO2 ranging from 24% to 60%, providing precise oxygen concentration control for patients requiring consistent low oxygen levels.

Venturi masks offer precise FiO2 control and can add humidity, benefiting COPD patients needing constant low oxygen. Patients can talk, though with a muffled voice. However, the mask must be removed for eating, which can be uncomfortable. Nurses must ensure air entrainment ports are not occluded by clothing or linens, as this could deliver unsafe oxygen concentrations.

A transtracheal oxygen catheter is a small tube surgically inserted into the trachea under local anesthesia. The catheter attaches to the neck with an elastic strap and connects to an oxygen source. It delivers oxygen throughout the respiratory cycle without interfering with talking, eating, or drinking, offering improved patient mobility and comfort compared to mask-based delivery systems.

Nurses must perform regular cleaning of the collar and around the tracheostomy to prevent fluid aspiration and infection. They must also periodically drain tubing distal to the tracheostomy due to condensation buildup. These maintenance tasks are essential because the collar's loose fit can result in oxygen concentration loss to the atmosphere, requiring careful monitoring.

Patients often prefer transtracheal oxygen because it improves mobility, comfort, and appearance. Unlike Venturi masks, transtracheal catheters do not interfere with talking or eating, eliminating the need for uncomfortable mask removal during meals. Additionally, transtracheal systems typically cost less than other delivery systems, making them a more economical option for long-term oxygen therapy.

Transtracheal oxygen carries surgical risks and requires frequent cleaning to prevent infection at the tracheostomy site. The elastic collar's loose fit allows some oxygen concentration to escape to the atmosphere, reducing delivery efficiency. Regular maintenance and monitoring are necessary to manage these complications and ensure safe, effective oxygen delivery to the patient.

Venturi mask care focuses on ensuring air entrainment ports remain unoccluded, monitoring patient comfort, and removing the mask for eating. Transtracheal catheter care emphasizes regular cleaning around the tracheostomy, preventing infection, and draining condensation from tubing. Both require vigilant monitoring, but transtracheal systems demand more intensive maintenance due to surgical site care needs and the need for oxygen delivering system iii tracheostomy management.