What is the formula for calculating the proper oxygen flow for a non-rebreather mask?

The proper oxygen flow for a non-rebreather mask is set at 10-15 liters per minute. This flow rate is necessary to ensure that the reservoir bag remains inflated, allowing for a high concentration of oxygen to be delivered to the patient. Non-rebreather masks are designed to deliver nearly 100% oxygen to patients who are in serious respiratory distress or have critical conditions requiring supplemental oxygen.

When the flow rate is set within this range, it helps to create a suitable environment for the patient to receive sufficient oxygen while minimizing the risk of rebreathing expired gases. An adequate flow rate fills the mask's reservoir bag quickly, ensuring that the patient inhales supplemental oxygen with each breath, thereby maximizing the oxygen delivered to the lungs.

Other flow rates outside the 10-15 liters per minute range might not provide enough oxygen flow to keep the bag inflated, thereby compromising the effectiveness of the non-rebreather mask and possibly leading to inadequate oxygenation for the patient.