Venturi mask

The venturi mask, also known as an air-entrainment mask, is a medical device to deliver a known oxygen concentration to patients on controlled oxygen therapy. Venturi masks are considered high-flow oxygen therapy devices. This is because venturi masks are able to provide total inspiratory flow at a specified FIO2 to patients therapy. The kits usually include multiple jets in order to set the desired FIO2 which are usually color coded. The color of the device reflects the delivered oxygen concentration, for example: blue = 24%; yellow = 28%; white = 31%; green = 35%; pink = 40%; orange = 50%. The color however varies with different brands and the user must check the instructions to determine the correct color for the desired FIO2. (In the UK, the colours and respective delivery concentrations are; Blue 24%, White 28%, Yellow 35%, Red 40%, Green 60%).

Other brands of masks have a rotating attachment that controls the air entrainment window, affecting the concentration of oxygen. This system is often used with air-entrainment nebulizers to provide humidification and oxygen therapy.

Mechanism

The mechanism of action depends on the venturi effect.

Use

Delivering supplemental oxygen at a precise concentration.

Flow problems

Air entrainment masks, although considered high flow systems, are not always able to guarantee the total flow with oxygen percentages above 35% in patients with high inspiratory flow demands. The problem with air entrainment systems is that as the...
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