1912 inefficient oxygen administration
The administration of oxygen.
By Leonard Hill, M.B., F.R.S..
Lecturer in Physiology.
London Hospital Medical School.
The British Medical Journal.
January 13.
Pages 71-72:
Introduction of a specially-designed mask.
Delivers high concentration of oxygen.
Oxygen usually given in thin stream through nozzle or small funnel held near nose.
I have seen a nurse hold it 6 in. away.
More than ineffcient.
It is absurd.
Oxygen diffuses into atmosphere.
Patient inspires air enriched very slightly with oxygen.
Analyses of pulmonary alveolar air showed increase of only 1 to 2 %.
If funnel held close to mouth increase at most 10 %.
Ludicrously inefficient.
I have known a practitioner going a step further in absurdity.
Allowing oxygen to escape in patient's room!
Man might as well hope to affect composition of sea by emptying his bladder into it.