Identify the FiO2 rate in given venturi mask:

Appeared in: NORCET 6 Prelims -2024

Explanation

The image shows a Venturi mask with a red-colored diluter.
According to the standardized color-coding system for Venturi masks, the red diluter delivers a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) of 40%.
To achieve this 40% FiO2, the oxygen flowmeter must be set to a specific rate, which is typically 10 liters per minute for the red diluter.

Option C: An FiO2 of 60% is incorrect for a green diluter. This concentration is delivered by a pink diluter.
Option B: An FiO2 of 31% is incorrect for a red diluter. This concentration is delivered by a white diluter.
Option D: An FiO2 of 28% is incorrect for a red diluter. This concentration is delivered by a yellow diluter.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of FiO2 delivery rate based on the color-coded diluter of a Venturi mask as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Venturi masks are essential for patients requiring a precise and fixed oxygen concentration, particularly those with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
For COPD patients, who may have a blunted respiratory drive due to chronic hypercapnia, administering too high a concentration of oxygen can suppress their hypoxic drive, leading to respiratory depression. Therefore, accurate FiO2 delivery is critical.
What if? If a patient with COPD requiring 28% FiO2 was mistakenly placed on the green (60%) Venturi mask, the high oxygen level could suppress their breathing, leading to increased CO2 retention (hypercapnia), respiratory acidosis, and potentially respiratory arrest. The nurse must always verify the correct color and flow rate against the physician's order.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the medical device shown in the image. It is an oxygen mask with a colored attachment, which is characteristic of a Venturi mask.
Next, identify the specific color of the attachment, known as the diluter or air-entrainment device. In this case, the color is red.
Recall the standardized color-coding system for Venturi masks, which links each color to a specific FiO2 percentage and required oxygen flow rate.
Based on this system, a red diluter corresponds to an FiO2 of 40%.
Finally, compare this value with the given options and select the correct one.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of FiO2 delivery rate based on the color-coded diluter of a Venturi mask.
Stem keywords: FiO2 rate, venturi mask
Lead-in keywords: Identify
Clinical cues: The image shows a red-colored diluter on the Venturi mask, which is the key visual cue.

QrewIefKH8JenF-xUV4kIB

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 731-733

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 663-665

Practise the full NORCET 6 Prelims -2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.