Which oxygen delivery method is classified as low flow?

The nasal cannula is classified as a low flow oxygen delivery method. This system delivers oxygen directly to the patient's nostrils through two prongs that sit comfortably in the nose, allowing for a relatively low concentration of oxygen to be administered, typically between 24% and 44% depending on the flow rate.

In the case of low flow oxygen delivery, the device does not create a reservoir for oxygen, meaning that it depends on the patient's own respiratory effort to mix inhaled room air with the supplemental oxygen. This is important in settings where precise control over oxygen concentration is not as critical, such as in patients who are spontaneously breathing adequately yet may require some supportive oxygen to alleviate mild hypoxia.

The other choices represent high flow or more controlled methods of oxygen delivery, designed to deliver higher concentrations of oxygen. For instance, a standard face mask can deliver higher concentrations of oxygen but is not considered low flow as it can retain more exhaled air. Non-rebreather masks are designed to provide a high concentration of oxygen and typically use a reservoir bag to ensure a continuous supply of oxygen with minimal room air mixing. Venturi masks are specifically designed to deliver precise concentrations of oxygen using a system of jets, hence also regarded as a high