Oxygen Delivery Devices: Nonrebreather

Oxygen Delivery Devices

Device	Flow Rate	Oxygen Concentration	Appropriate Use
Nonrebreather mask	12-13 liters/minute	80%-90%	Delivery system of choice for patients with signs of inadequate breathing and patients who are cyanotic, cool, clammy, short of breath or suffering chest pain, suffering severe injuries, or displaying an altered mental status.
Nasal cannula	1-6 liters/minute	24%-44%	Appropriate for patients who cannot tolerate a mask.

*Each increase by 1 liter of oxygen/minute is the equivalent of ~3% increase in oxygen concentration. 

Nonrebreather Mask

The nonrebreather mask is the best for delivering high concentrations of oxygen to the patient as the air exhaled by the patient does not return to the reservoir (is not rebreathed). 

The reservoir bag must be inflated before the mask is placed on the patient’s face.  To inflate the reservoir bag, use your finger to cover the exhaust port or the connection between the mask and the reservoir.  The reservoir must always contain enough oxygen so that it does not deflate by more than one third when the patient takes his deepest inspiration.  This can be maintained by the proper flow of oxygen (15L/min).  This max will provide concentrations of oxygen ranging from 80-100%.  Minimum flow rate is 8L/min.  Maximum flow may vary by manufacturer and fit of the mask, but generally ranges 12-15L/min).   Masks come in different sizes for adults, children and infants.

LINK: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GYazdBOzLxk