A patient receiving oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula complains of nasal dryness but has no retained secretions. Which device is most appropriate?  

A mechanically ventilated patient develops large amounts of condensate (“rainout”) in the ventilator tubing. Which intervention is most appropriate?

A patient with a tracheostomy is receiving a heated humidifier. During rounds, the therapist notices copious condensation in the inspiratory tubing. What is the best action?  

Which of the following are characteristics of relative humidity? Expressed as a percentage Depends on temperature Measured in mg/L Measured with a hygrometer  

A patient with pneumonia is receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min. The patient complains of mild nasal irritation but has thin secretions and no evidence of mucus plugging. Which intervention is most appropriate?  

A patient is receiving gas containing 14 mg/L of water vapor at 20°C. The maximum capacity at 20°C is 17 mg/L.    

Which of the following factors increase evaporation in a humidifier? Higher gas temperature Greater surface area Longer contact time Greater thermal mass  

Which of the following are indications for humidity therapy? Dry medical gases Bypassed upper airway Bronchospasm caused by cold air Thick secretions  

Which statements regarding thermal mass are true? A greater volume of water increases thermal mass. Larger thermal mass improves heat transfer. Greater thermal mass helps maintain a stable gas temperature. Smaller thermal mass stores more heat.

A gas at 20°C contains 15 mg/L of water vapor. Maximum capacity at 20°C is 17 mg/L. Calculate the relative humidity.