Which oxygen-delivery device is NOT typically authorized for EMS oxygen delivery under ICEMA?

• A. Nasal cannula
• B. Venturi mask
• C. Non-rebreather mask
• D. Simple face mask

Answer: (B)

In EMS, oxygen delivery is kept simple and reliable so responders can quickly and effectively treat hypoxemia in the field. Nasal cannula, simple face mask, and non-rebreather mask cover a wide range of needs with straightforward setup and predictable results: the nasal cannula provides low to moderate oxygen, the simple mask covers moderate needs, and the non-rebreather delivers higher concentrations when in severe distress.

A Venturi mask, while capable of delivering fixed, precise oxygen concentrations, relies on selecting the correct adapter and maintaining specific flow rates to achieve the intended FiO2. In the chaos of a prehospital scene, that precision is hard to guarantee, and misselection or incorrect flow can lead to delivering an incorrect oxygen concentration. That complexity makes it less suitable for routine EMS use under ICEMA protocols, so it’s not typically authorized for field oxygen delivery. It’s more commonly a hospital device where controlled, exact FiO2 is needed and monitoring is readily available.