Final answer:
A Nasal Cannula is a typical example of a low-flow oxygen delivery system used for long-term oxygen therapy, providing a comfortable and manageable solution for patients needing supplemental oxygen over a long period, like those with COPD.
Step-by-step explanation:
Low-Flow Oxygen Delivery Systems for Long-Term Therapy
An example of a low-flow oxygen delivery system used for long-term therapy is the Nasal Cannula. This type of system provides a steady flow of oxygen through small, flexible tubes with two open prongs that are situated at the nostrils. Because of its simplicity and comfort, the nasal cannula is commonly used for patients requiring long-term oxygen therapy at home or in a medical facility. This method is beneficial for those who need a smaller amount of supplemental oxygen or who require oxygen over a long duration, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.
In contrast, high-flow oxygen delivery systems, like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, deal with more immediate or acute medical conditions. Skin infections, carbon monoxide poisoning, and certain types of wound healing are examples where the higher pressures and oxygen concentration levels of hyperbaric chambers play a crucial role. This therapy increases oxygen saturation in tissues, aiding the immune response and combating anaerobic bacterial infections.