oxygen delivery devices

Last reviewed 02/2021

Nasal Cannula

• Nasal cannula consists of two prongs that are inserted inside the nostrils. Giving oxygen by nasal cannula allows the patient to talk, eat, and drink; they can also be less claustrophobic than facemasks. A nasal cannula is usually preferred for long-term oxygen therapy. It can, however, produce dermatitis and mucosal drying in sensitive individuals. Generally flow rates must not exceed 4L/min or it will damage the mucosa
• delivers unpredictable oxygen concentrations between 22-35% that vary with flow rate and respiratory pattern and rate
• flow rates of 2-4 litres/min are normally used
• can be used in patients with stable Type II respiratory failure

Simple Oxygen Face mask

• Simple oxygen face masks are single patient use and are low-flow masks which entrain the air from the atmosphere and are therefore able to deliver a variable oxygen percentage from 21-60%. The actual amount of oxygen the patient receives will depend on the rate and depth of respiration. The oxygen mask is placed over the patient's nose and mouth with the elastic strap over the ears to the back of the head. Adjust the length of the strap to ensure the mask fits securely.

Venturi Oxygen Face Mask

• often used when a percentage of oxygen has been prescribed, this special mask incorporates a venturi system which are colour-coded and specify the flow of oxygen required to deliver 24%, 28%, 35%, 40% and 60% oxygen. These are therefore fixed performance mask where a known concentration can be achieved
• First select the correct colour-coded venturi oxygen mask according to the prescribed percentage of oxygen, the facemask is then placed over the patient's nose and mouth with the elastic strap over the ears to the back of the head. Adjust the length of the strap to ensure the mask fits securely. Set the flow rate as indicated on the device

Reference:

• Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust (2011). Guidelines for oxygen - administration, prescribing, storage and safety.
• Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust (2006). Oxygen use for adults - inpatients