Scene: Applying a Simple Oxygen Mask for Oxygen Therapy
Nurse:
Good morning, Mr. Lee. My name is Sarah, and I’ll be your nurse today. Your doctor has prescribed oxygen therapy using a simple face mask to help raise your oxygen levels. I’d like to explain how this works and walk you through the process step by step. If you experience any discomfort or have any questions during the procedure, please let me know immediately.
Patient:
Good morning, Sarah. Thank you. I’ve never used this type of mask before. Will it be uncomfortable?
Nurse:
That’s a common concern. Most patients find it quite manageable once the mask is properly adjusted. The key is to make sure it fits snugly without being too tight. Before we begin, let’s position you properly. Could you please sit up into a semi-Fowler’s position? This means reclining slightly with your back elevated, which helps your lungs expand more easily and promotes better oxygen flow.
Patient:
Alright, I’ll adjust myself. How’s this?
Nurse:
That’s perfect. Your position will help the oxygen reach your lungs more efficiently. Now, I’ll start by preparing the equipment.
(Nurse performs hand hygiene and gathers equipment: a simple oxygen mask, oxygen tubing, and checks the flowmeter on the wall.)
Nurse:
I’m connecting the oxygen tubing to the flowmeter and attaching the other end to the simple face mask. Your prescribed flow rate is 6 liters per minute, which delivers approximately 40–60% oxygen concentration, depending on how well the mask fits and how you're breathing.
(Nurse turns on the oxygen supply and adjusts the flowmeter to the correct setting.)
Nurse:
I’ll now place the mask over your nose and mouth. It’s designed to cover both, as oxygen needs to be inhaled through either passage. Let me secure it with the elastic strap that goes around the back of your head.
(Nurse gently places the mask, adjusting the strap to fit.)
Nurse:
Does the mask feel comfortable, or would you like me to make an adjustment?
Patient:
It feels okay, but it’s a bit tight around my cheeks.
Nurse:
Thanks for telling me. Let me loosen the strap just a little.
(Nurse adjusts the strap and ensures the mask sits gently but securely on the face.)
Nurse:
How about now?
Patient:
Much better, thank you.
Nurse:
Great. Now let me explain what you might notice. You’ll likely hear a soft hissing sound, which is the sound of oxygen flowing through the mask. That’s completely normal. You may also feel a cool sensation on your face due to the flow of gas. If you experience dryness, irritation, or any kind of discomfort, please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Monitoring and Safety Instructions
Nurse:
I’m going to check the oxygen flow again to confirm it’s consistent. I’ll also use a pulse oximeter to monitor your oxygen saturation levels. This small clip will go on your fingertip and give us real-time feedback on how well your body is absorbing the oxygen.
(Nurse places the pulse oximeter on the patient’s finger and observes the readings.)
Patient:
Okay, I see. It’s good to know how it’s monitored.
Nurse:
There are a few safety tips to keep in mind while you’re wearing the mask. First, try not to adjust or touch the mask yourself, as it might shift the positioning and reduce the oxygen delivery. If anything feels uncomfortable, please call for assistance. Also, make sure the tubing doesn’t become kinked, pinched, or tangled, as this could disrupt the oxygen flow.
Most importantly, avoid any activities near open flames or heat sources, including smoking, as oxygen greatly increases the risk of fire.
Patient:
Understood. How long will I need to wear this?
Nurse:
That depends on how your oxygen levels respond to the therapy. We’ll monitor you closely using the pulse oximeter, and your doctor will decide if any adjustments are needed—whether that means changing the flow rate, switching the delivery device, or discontinuing the therapy. For now, I’ll check on you again in about 30 minutes to make sure everything is working well and that you’re comfortable.
Patient:
Thank you, Sarah. I feel more at ease now that I know what to expect.
Nurse:
You’re very welcome, Mr. Lee. I’ll be nearby, so if anything feels off, just press the call button. I’ll come right away to assist you.
Educational Notes (for Nursing Students):
- Device type: A simple oxygen mask is suitable for short-term oxygen therapy when moderate oxygen concentration is needed.
- Flow rate: Generally used at 5–10 L/min to ensure adequate oxygen delivery and to flush out CO₂.
- Fitting: The mask should be snug but not too tight. Poor fit can lead to air leakage and reduce therapy effectiveness.
- Monitoring: Use a pulse oximeter to track SpO₂ levels; normal range is typically 95–100%, but target values may vary per patient condition.
- Patient safety:
- Avoid smoking and open flames.
- Educate on not adjusting the mask independently.
- Monitor for signs of skin irritation or pressure injuries.
- Documentation:
- Oxygen delivery method (simple mask).
- Flow rate and duration.
- Patient tolerance and any side effects.
- SpO₂ before and after application.
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