Which device is most commonly used to deliver supplemental oxygen to patients?

The use of a non-rebreather mask for delivering supplemental oxygen is highly effective due to its design, which helps to ensure that patients receive a high concentration of oxygen. This type of mask is equipped with a one-way valve that keeps exhaled carbon dioxide from re-entering the reservoir bag, thus maintaining a higher level of oxygen for the patient.

In emergency situations, the ability to deliver oxygen concentrations of up to 90% or more makes the non-rebreather mask a preferred choice, especially for patients experiencing respiratory distress or severe hypoxia. The mask covers the nose and mouth and has a reservoir bag that fills with oxygen, allowing the patient to breathe in this concentrated gas during inhalation.

While other devices like oxygen concentrators, oxygen cylinders, and Venturi masks play important roles in oxygen delivery, they may not achieve the same high levels of oxygen concentration in acute settings. For example, an oxygen concentrator is generally used for long-term oxygen therapy, and oxygen cylinders provide portable oxygen but depend on the flow rate and may need to be refilled. The Venturi mask, while useful for delivering controlled oxygen concentrations, typically provides a lower concentration compared to a non-rebreather mask. Therefore, the non-rebreather mask