Final answer:
A bag-mask device can deliver nearly 100% oxygen, while rescue breaths have around 16-17% oxygen as they contain the amount after a rescuer's usage. This is crucial in scenarios such as carbon monoxide poisoning, where high oxygen levels are needed to dissociate carbon monoxide from hemoglobin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Difference in O2% Between Bag-Mask Device and Rescue Breaths
The percentage of oxygen (O2%) delivered by a bag-mask device is substantially higher than what is achieved through rescue breaths provided by a rescuer. A bag-mask device can typically administer nearly 100% oxygen if connected to an oxygen source. In contrast, rescue breaths provided directly by a rescuer will contain the amount of oxygen that is present after the rescuer's body has used some of it, usually around 16% to 17%.
Using a Douglas bag method for measuring expired gases can show the concentration of oxygen and carbon dioxide accurately. This could be particularly useful for healthcare professionals to assess the efficiency of different oxygen delivery methods.
Furthermore, the administration of 100% oxygen is crucial in treating conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning, where it competes with carbon monoxide for binding sites on hemoglobin, facilitating the dissociation of carbon monoxide and restoring normal oxygen transport. Giving carbon dioxide would not be beneficial, as it does not support the binding and transport of oxygen in the bloodstream and could exacerbate respiratory acidosis.