After the initial assessment, what was the recommended delivery method for oxygen to the elderly patient?

Using a nasal cannula at 2 L/min is often the recommended delivery method for oxygen in elderly patients, primarily due to several factors related to their health status and needs. This method provides a gentle flow of oxygen that is comfortable and allows the patient to speak and eat without obstruction, which is especially important for the elderly who may already face challenges in these areas.

The nasal cannula is also advantageous because it delivers low-flow oxygen therapy, making it easier to titrate the oxygen levels based on the patient's needs. Administering oxygen at this lower flow rate can minimize the risk of oxygen toxicity and other complications that are more likely to arise with higher flow rates, such as those associated with non-rebreather masks or higher flow devices.

In contrast, other methods like the non-rebreather mask, while effective for rapid delivery of oxygen, are typically reserved for more acute situations requiring higher oxygen concentrations and may not be comfortable for elderly patients. Similarly, oxygen tent therapy and simple masks at higher flow rates can also be less comfortable and impractical for routine use in this population.

Thus, a nasal cannula at 2 L/min strikes a balance between adequate oxygen supply and patient comfort, making it the most suitable option for many elderly individuals during their