Paramedic National Registry Practice

For a child experiencing respiratory distress, what is the recommended method for administering oxygen therapy?

1. 2 LPM nasal cannula

2. 5 LPM blow by

3. Non-rebreather mask at 10 LPM

4. Venturi mask at 4 LPM

The correct answer is: 5 LPM blow by

For a child experiencing respiratory distress, administering oxygen therapy via a blow-by method is often preferred because it is non-invasive and can be more comfortable for a child who may be anxious or resistant to having a mask placed on their face. This method allows the oxygen to be delivered without the need for a tight seal, which can sometimes cause distress in younger patients. The blow-by technique involves placing the oxygen near the child's face so that they can inhale the oxygen without the restraint of a mask. This technique can provide immediate relief and improve oxygenation without the added stress that equipment may cause, making it suitable for children who may be experiencing fear or discomfort associated with more restrictive methods. While the other options for oxygen delivery methods may be effective in certain circumstances, they have limitations regarding comfort and patient cooperation, especially with children. For instance, a non-rebreather mask, while effective in delivering high concentrations of oxygen, may cause discomfort and anxiety, leading to difficulties in patient compliance. Venturi masks and nasal cannulas also may not provide adequate oxygen delivery or comfort in a child in acute respiratory distress.