The difference between oxygen inhalation via face mask and nasal cannula

Oxygen mask and nasal cannula are the two most common oxygen therapy methods in clinical practice, each with its own characteristics. Currently, in routine wards, nasal cannula oxygen therapy is mostly used for oxygen therapy, unless nasal cannula oxygen therapy cannot maintain normal blood oxygen saturation for a long period of time, in which case oxygen mask is chosen.

During patient care, the method of oxygen therapy will change according to the changes in the patient's condition. However, in PACU, due to the risk of residual muscle relaxation and incomplete metabolism of analgesics, it interferes with and inhibits breathing to varying degrees, leading to limited lung ventilation and gas exchange, respiratory amnesia, and increased risks. In this case, oxygen is often administered via face mask.

Of course, while nasal cannula oxygen therapy is relatively simple and requires less oxygen than face mask oxygen therapy, it may cause nasal dryness and discomfort, and patients may find it difficult to tolerate prolonged oxygen therapy. Therefore, in current routine oxygen therapy, oxygen is thoroughly warmed and humidified, and disposable humidified nasal oxygen cannulas are widely used due to their sterile humidified oxygen therapy and ease of operation.

Both face mask oxygen therapy and nasal cannula oxygen therapy are commonly used methods of oxygen administration in clinical practice. Relatively speaking, face mask oxygen therapy is more effective than nasal cannula oxygen therapy.

1. Oxygen mask: A mask is placed over the patient's mouth and nose, allowing breathing through either the nose or mouth. The oxygen concentration is relatively stable, and it is less irritating to the respiratory mucosa. Compared to nasal cannula oxygen therapy, it is more comfortable and better tolerated by the elderly and children. However, oxygen mask therapy can affect the patient's ability to drink water, eat, and cough up phlegm.

2. Nasal cannula oxygen therapy: The cannula is placed at the entrance of the nasal cavity, allowing for nasal breathing. It is simple and convenient to use and does not affect eating, drinking, or coughing. However, the oxygen flow rate of nasal cannula oxygen therapy is relatively low, and the oxygenation effect may be affected by factors such as nasal cavity structure and cannula position. In addition, it is easy to irritate the nasal mucosa, making it less comfortable.

Currently, critically ill patients with severe hypoxia usually receive oxygen via face mask, while patients with mild to moderate hypoxia are suitable for oxygen via nasal cannula.