Venturimasks

Venturimasks are a type of breathing apparatus designed to deliver enriched oxygen concentrations to individuals who require supplemental oxygen. The core principle behind a Venturimask is its use of the Venturi effect, a phenomenon where a fluid passing through a constricted section of a pipe accelerates and its pressure decreases. In the context of a Venturimask, a high-velocity stream of oxygen passes through a small jet. This creates a lower-pressure area that draws in surrounding room air. By using different sized jets and adjustable air entrainment ports, healthcare professionals can precisely control the proportion of oxygen delivered, achieving specific and consistent fractional inspired oxygen (FiO2) levels. This allows for tailored oxygen therapy, which is crucial for patients with conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or acute respiratory distress, where precise oxygen control is vital to avoid hyperoxia or hypoxia. The masks are typically made of clear plastic to allow for visual monitoring of the patient. They are often used in hospital settings, emergency medical services, and for home oxygen therapy.