Health FAQ non-rebreather vs oxymask, emergency nursing, and more.

Human life is dependent on oxygen.Nitrogen and other gases make up the rest of the air.Oxygen masks are used in emergency situations to help patients breathe easier.There are two types of masks you will see.

A rebreather mask has a soft plastic bag attached at the end that saves one-third of a person's exhaled air, while the rest of the air gets out via side ports.The person can breathe in some of the carbon dioxide, which stimulates breathing.

There are several one-way valves in the side ports of a non-rebreather.The bag attached to the mask has a one-way valve that prevents carbon dioxide from entering the bag.This type of mask does not allow for the rebreathing of exhaled air because it escapes through the side ports.

The purpose of the masks is to deliver high amounts of oxygen to people.

When a person is receiving oxygen, there should always be a "No Smoking" sign posted.All electrical equipment should have plugs that are grounded to avoid sparks.People who use oxygen at home should be aware of all the dangers, such as using the oxygen close to a stove or portable heating unit.Oxygen tanks can explode if they are bumped or dropped, so they should be held in a special cart.