Question

While managing a patient with acute shortness of breath, you attempt to apply a nonrebreathing mask set at 12 L/min. The patient pulls the mask away from his face, stating that it is smothering him. What should you do?

1) Increase the flow rate of oxygen
2) Switch to a different type of oxygen delivery device
3) Encourage the patient to keep the mask on
4) Remove the mask and provide alternative oxygen therapy

Answer 1

If a patient with acute shortness of breath finds a nonrebreathing mask smothering, the appropriate action would be to remove the mask and provide alternative oxygen therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient with acute shortness of breath finds a nonrebreathing mask smothering, the appropriate action would be to remove the mask and provide alternative oxygen therapy (option 4).

A nonrebreathing mask is designed to provide high-flow oxygen delivery to patients who are experiencing acute respiratory distress. However, if the patient feels uncomfortable or smothered, it is important to respect their feelings and provide an alternative method of oxygen administration that they can tolerate.

Some alternative oxygen therapy options include nasal cannula, simple face mask, or high-flow nasal cannula, depending on the severity of the patient's symptoms and their ability to tolerate different oxygen delivery devices.