Purpose and Medical Uses

Oxygen masks are used to treat children who have low blood oxygen levels, a condition called hypoxemia. The device helps deliver concentrated oxygen directly to the lungs.

Common Situations Where Oxygen Masks are Used:

• Respiratory infections: Pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or severe colds
• Asthma attacks: During severe breathing difficulties
• Heart conditions: When the heart cannot pump enough oxygen-rich blood
• Emergency situations: Trauma, accidents, or sudden breathing problems
• During surgery: Before, during, or after medical procedures
• Chronic lung diseases: Cystic fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia
• High altitude sickness: When traveling to areas with thin air
• Carbon monoxide poisoning: Emergency treatment

Where Oxygen Masks are Commonly Used:

• Hospitals (emergency rooms, intensive care units, general wards)
• Ambulances and emergency medical services
• Clinics and doctor's offices
• Home care settings for children with chronic conditions
• Aircraft for medical emergencies

Types of Oxygen Masks for Children

1. Simple Face Mask

The most basic type with small holes on the sides. Oxygen flows directly into the mask and mixes with room air when the child breathes.

• Flow rate: 5 to 10 liters per minute
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Good for short-term use

2. Non-Rebreather Mask

Has a reservoir bag attached and one-way valves that prevent exhaled air from mixing with fresh oxygen. Delivers the highest oxygen concentration.

• Flow rate: 10 to 15 liters per minute
• Used in emergencies
• The reservoir bag must stay inflated at least one-third full

3. Partial Rebreather Mask

Similar to non-rebreather but allows some exhaled air to mix back with oxygen. Has a reservoir bag but no one-way valves.

• Flow rate: 6 to 15 liters per minute
• Less wasteful of oxygen than non-rebreather

4. Venturi Mask

Uses color-coded adapters to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. Very accurate and controlled.

• Best when exact oxygen levels are critical
• Each adapter is marked with specific flow rate and oxygen percentage
• Commonly used in hospital settings

5. Aerosol Mask

Delivers humidified oxygen along with nebulized medications.

• Used when child needs both oxygen and breathing treatments
• Helps keep airways moist

How to Use an Oxygen Mask: Step-by-Step Guide

Before Starting:

• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Check that you have the correct size mask for the child
• Ensure oxygen supply is available and functioning
• Have the prescribed flow rate information ready

Application Steps:

1. Check the equipment: Inspect the oxygen mask for any cracks, tears, or defects. Ensure all tubing connections are secure and not kinked.
2. Connect the tubing: Attach one end of the oxygen tubing to the oxygen source (tank or concentrator) and the other end to the mask.
3. Set the flow rate: Turn on the oxygen supply and adjust the flow meter to the rate prescribed by the doctor (measured in liters per minute).
4. Check oxygen flow: Hold the mask near your hand to feel the oxygen flowing before placing it on the child.
5. Explain to the child: If the child is old enough to understand, calmly explain what you are doing. Show them the mask and let them touch it if they want.
6. Position the child: Help the child sit upright or in a comfortable position. Lying flat can make breathing harder.
7. Place the mask: Gently place the mask over the child's nose and mouth. The pointed end goes over the nose bridge, and the wider end covers the chin.
8. Secure the mask: Adjust the elastic strap around the head to hold the mask in place. It should be snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit one finger between the strap and the child's head.
9. Check the seal: Make sure the mask fits closely against the face with no large gaps. Air should not be escaping from the sides.
10. Monitor the child: Stay with the child, especially during the first few minutes. Watch for any signs of distress or discomfort.
11. Check reservoir bag (if applicable): For masks with reservoir bags, ensure the bag inflates and deflates with breathing and stays at least one-third full.
12. Keep the child calm: Offer comfort and reassurance. You can read stories, play quiet games, or hold their hand.

Removing the Mask:

1. Turn off oxygen supply: Or reduce to ordered flow rate if continuing oxygen by another method.
2. Remove gently: Lift the elastic strap over the child's head and carefully take off the mask.
3. Clean the child's face: Wipe any moisture from around the nose and mouth with a soft cloth.
4. Disconnect tubing: If therapy is complete, disconnect the tubing from the oxygen source.

Precautions and Safety Guidelines

Fire Safety (Most Critical):

• Keep oxygen equipment at least 5 to 10 feet away from open flames, heaters, stoves, and candles
• Do not use oxygen near electrical equipment that may spark
• Avoid petroleum-based products (petroleum jelly, oil-based lotions) on the face
• Use water-based lubricants only
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when using oxygen at home
• Post "No Smoking - Oxygen in Use" signs
• Turn off oxygen when not in use

Equipment Safety:

• Store oxygen tanks in upright position and secured to prevent falling
• Keep tanks away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Do not drop or damage oxygen tanks
• Check equipment regularly for wear and damage
• Replace masks and tubing as recommended (usually every 2 weeks for home use)
• Keep backup oxygen supply if child depends on oxygen

Child Safety and Comfort:

• Never leave a young child alone while using oxygen mask
• Watch for skin irritation or pressure sores from mask edges
• Take mask breaks as allowed by doctor to check skin
• Keep the child's skin clean and dry under the mask
• Ensure tubing is long enough to allow movement but not too long to create tripping hazard
• Secure tubing to prevent tangling or pulling

Medical Monitoring:

• Monitor oxygen saturation with pulse oximeter if available
• Watch for signs of breathing difficulty even with oxygen
• Never increase oxygen flow without doctor's orders
• Keep records of oxygen use if instructed by healthcare provider
• Attend all follow-up appointments

Travel and Transport:

• Inform airlines in advance if traveling with oxygen (special regulations apply)
• Secure oxygen tanks properly in vehicles
• Keep windows slightly open when using oxygen in car
• Bring backup supplies for emergencies

Potential Dangers and Warning Signs

Oxygen Toxicity:

Too much oxygen over long periods can be harmful, especially to premature infants. This is why precise oxygen levels are important.

Skin Problems:

• Pressure sores from tight mask
• Redness or irritation around nose and mouth
• Dry or cracked skin

Prevention: Use correct size mask, apply water-based moisturizer to unaffected skin areas, take breaks if allowed.

Anxiety or Claustrophobia:

Some children feel scared or trapped by the mask. Use distraction techniques, comfort measures, and work with healthcare team for alternatives if needed.

Drying of Airways:

Oxygen can dry the nose and throat. Using humidified oxygen or keeping the child well-hydrated helps prevent this.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning (Home Use):

1. Disconnect mask: Remove the mask from oxygen tubing.
2. Prepare cleaning solution: Mix warm water with mild dish soap in a clean basin.
3. Wash the mask: Gently wash the mask with soapy water using a soft cloth. Clean all surfaces including straps.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse under clean running water until all soap is removed.
5. Dry completely: Shake off excess water and air dry on a clean towel. Do not use the mask until completely dry.
6. Store properly: Keep in a clean, dry place away from dust and dirt.

Disinfection (Weekly or as Needed):

• Use vinegar solution (1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water) for soaking
• Soak mask for 20 to 30 minutes
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
• Air dry completely

Tubing Care:

• Replace oxygen tubing every 2 weeks or sooner if damaged
• Check daily for cracks, kinks, or blockages
• Keep tubing clean and dry
• Do not wash tubing (replace instead)

Oxygen Equipment Maintenance:

• Wipe down oxygen concentrator or tank with damp cloth weekly
• Clean or replace concentrator filters as per manufacturer guidelines
• Check all connections regularly
• Schedule regular equipment service checks
• Keep equipment manual handy for troubleshooting

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage and Safety Tips

Proper Storage:

• Store oxygen tanks upright in a well-ventilated area
• Use chain or strap to secure tanks to wall or stand
• Keep away from heat sources (furnaces, radiators, direct sunlight)
• Maintain room temperature between 50 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit
• Do not store tanks in closets, confined spaces, or car trunks
• Keep tanks at least 5 feet from electrical outlets or appliances

Emergency Preparedness:

• Keep list of emergency numbers near oxygen equipment
• Have backup power source for oxygen concentrators if available
• Inform local fire department that oxygen is used in the home
• Plan for power outages (backup tanks, generator, or evacuation plan)
• Keep medical information card with child's oxygen requirements
• Teach family members basic oxygen equipment operation

Travel Kit Essentials:

• Portable oxygen supply with extra backup
• Extra masks and tubing
• Pulse oximeter
• Doctor's prescription and letter for oxygen use
• Contact information for oxygen supplier
• Medical information card

When to Contact Healthcare Provider

Contact Doctor if:

• Oxygen saturation stays below prescribed target level
• Child needs higher oxygen flow than prescribed to maintain saturation
• Skin breakdown or pressure sores develop
• Signs of infection appear (fever, increased mucus, change in mucus color)
• Child is increasingly uncomfortable despite adjustments
• You have questions about oxygen therapy management

Call Emergency Services if:

• Severe breathing difficulty despite oxygen
• Blue or gray skin color
• Loss of consciousness
• Chest pain
• Severe confusion or inability to recognize people
• Seizures
• Equipment failure with no backup available

Additional Resources

Recommended References:

• Official websites: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Medical textbooks: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency Medicine (Strange et al.)
• Equipment manufacturer manuals for specific device instructions
• Local respiratory therapy departments for training and support