Non-Rebreather masks - how many holes should be covered?

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cityjeff

Joined: Wed, 17/11/2021 - 13:08

Last seen: 4 years 9 months

Submitted by cityjeff on

I'm confused and hope someone can help me out here ... I have been using hi-flow oxygen for a few weeks now (and boy does it help!) with the non-rebreather mask, made by salter labs, supplied with the O2, 

It comes with 2 sets of holes, one of which has a simple plastic cover which allows exhaled air to be expelled but closes up when I breath in.  The other is just holes, so when I breath in, air comes in and I assume, dilutes the o2.  I asked Bayer about this when I ordered my oxygen and they sent me two new masks both with only one hole covered.

I've looked at the OUCH "O2 info for patients" handout and it tells me I should use "A mask called a non-rebreathe mask which has a reservoir bag and is used with the two holes covered" 

So, should I cover up the hole or not?

Thanks

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Phil - OUCH UK

Joined: Sat, 29/08/2026 - 14:36

Last seen: 2 weeks 3 days

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The mask with the simple plastic bits that close when you breathe in is the non-rebreather mask, you've obviously noticed they're simple valves.
You need 100% high-flow oxygen, if the mask lets in any air it's no use to you.

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