A patient who is suspected of being hypoxic and is breathing adequately should be given supplemental oxygen with a:
A. nasal cannula.
B. nonrebreathing mask.
C. mouth-to-mask device.
D. bag-valve mask.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. nasal cannula.
Explanation:
When a patient is suspected of being hypoxic but is breathing adequately, the primary goal is to increase the oxygen supply to the tissues without compromising the patient’s ability to breathe on their own. The method of oxygen administration chosen depends on the severity of hypoxia and the patient’s respiratory effort. In this scenario, the nasal cannula is the most appropriate option for providing supplemental oxygen to a patient who is breathing adequately.
Here’s a breakdown of each option:
- Nasal Cannula (A):
- A nasal cannula is a device that delivers oxygen through two small prongs placed into the nostrils. It is ideal for patients who are still able to breathe on their own, but need supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygenation.
- The nasal cannula can deliver oxygen at flow rates typically ranging from 1 to 6 liters per minute, which can increase the oxygen concentration in the patient’s inspired air by 24% to 40%, depending on the flow rate.
- It is non-invasive, comfortable, and allows the patient to talk, eat, and move around while receiving oxygen.
- It is particularly suited for mild to moderate hypoxia in patients who have normal respiratory effort.
- Nonrebreathing Mask (B):
- A nonrebreathing mask delivers a higher concentration of oxygen (up to 90%) through a mask with a reservoir bag. It is generally used in more severe cases of hypoxia or when rapid oxygenation is required. However, it is typically reserved for patients who are not breathing adequately or are in more critical conditions.
- Mouth-to-Mask Device (C):
- A mouth-to-mask device is typically used in emergency situations for resuscitation when the patient is not breathing or has a respiratory arrest. It delivers positive pressure ventilation and is not suitable for a patient who is breathing adequately but is hypoxic.
- Bag-Valve Mask (D):
- A bag-valve mask is a device used for positive pressure ventilation in cases where a patient is not breathing or requires assistance in ventilating. It is often used in critical situations, such as respiratory failure or arrest. This device is not appropriate for a patient who is breathing adequately on their own.
Therefore, for a patient suspected of hypoxia who is still breathing adequately, a nasal cannula is the most appropriate and comfortable method for delivering supplemental oxygen.