What is the proper way to administer oxygen to a patient experiencing respiratory distress?

The proper way to administer oxygen to a patient experiencing respiratory distress is to use a non-rebreather mask at a flow rate of 10-15 liters per minute. This method is effective because it allows for a higher concentration of oxygen delivery directly to the patient. The non-rebreather mask has a reservoir bag that can fill with oxygen, ensuring that the patient receives supplemental oxygen quickly and efficiently, which is crucial in managing respiratory distress. The high flow rate helps to displace any exhaled carbon dioxide and ensures that the patient is inhaling as much oxygen as possible during their respiratory effort.

Using a nasal cannula can be insufficient in cases of significant respiratory distress; typically, it only delivers a lower concentration of oxygen. While providing oxygen through an endotracheal tube is a method for managing airway patency and delivering oxygen, it is usually reserved for more severe airway management scenarios and not the first line of treatment for respiratory distress. Flow rates that are too low, like 1 liter per minute, are also inadequate for patients in respiratory distress, as they do not meet the physiological demands of the patient. Therefore, the non-rebreather mask at the specified flow rate is the best practice in this situation.