Which respiratory support device can adjust oxygen delivery based on flow rate?

The Venturi mask is specifically designed to deliver precise concentrations of oxygen to patients. It operates by employing the principle of Bernoulli's effect, which allows it to mix ambient air with oxygen at a known flow rate. Different colored valves (or adapters) can be attached to the mask, each corresponding to a specific flow rate and oxygen concentration, enabling healthcare providers to titrate the oxygen delivery according to the patient's needs. This adaptability makes it a critical tool in managing patients with varying levels of respiratory distress or different requirements for supplemental oxygen.

In contrast, non-rebreather masks provide high-flow oxygen but do not allow for specific adjustments based on flow dynamics; they are less precise in terms of oxygen concentration. BiPAP devices offer positive airway pressure support rather than focusing on the precise mixture of oxygen and air, making them suitable for patients needing ventilatory assistance rather than refined oxygen concentrations. Nasal cannulas deliver a constant but less controlled flow of oxygen, which may not meet the precise titration demands for certain clinical situations. This capability for controlled oxygen delivery is what distinguishes the Venturi mask as the correct choice.