Different types of Oxygen Masks in the NMC OSCE Oxygen therapy station

NMC OSCE Oxygen therapy station understanding the different types of oxygen masks and their appropriate uses is essential when preparing for your NMC OSCE exam. Oxygen therapy is a common nursing skill assessed in the NMC OSCE exam.. Here, we will brief you on the different oxygen delivery devices you may encounter in the NMC OSCE Exam and help you feel confident on NMC OSCE exam day.

Why Is Oxygen Therapy Important in the NMC OSCE?

Oxygen is a prescribed drug and should be administered safely and appropriately. During your NMC OSCE, you may be required to:

• Administer oxygen safely
• Select the correct delivery device
• Document the details accurately
  
  Step-by-step approach to administer Oxygen Therapy Station in NMC OSCE Exam:
  
  
  
  

·        Introduction- Introduce yourself, explain procedure, ID, Allergy check, and mention side effects

·        Collect Articles- Read the Prescription and check legibility. Collect articles and check the integrity of the articles.

·        Procedure – Second ID & Allergy check, gain consent, choose appropriate Mask and flow rate as per Prescription. Apply the Mask and check the comfort of the patient. Re-assess saturation after 30 minutes, assess skin, ears, and the back of the head. Provide health education and instructions for oral care.

·        Conclusion & Documentation- Document procedure accurately and conclude procedure to the assessor.

Types of Oxygen Masks You Must Know

Here are the most commonly used oxygen delivery devices in the NMC OSCE exam:

1. Nasal Cannula

• Flow Rate: 1–6 L/min
• Best for: Patients requiring low-level oxygen support. Used in regular hospitals and care homes.
• OSCE Tip: There is no bag to inflate, and there is no nose brace to adjust.

2. Simple Face Mask

• Flow Rate: 5–10 L/min
• Best for: Moderate oxygen requirements. Used in regular hospitals and care homes.

3.  Non-Rebreather Mask (Reservoir Mask)

• Flow Rate: 10–15 L/min
• Best for: Emergencies or High oxygen Flow. Used in hospitals.
• OSCE Tip: Make sure the reservoir bag is inflated before placing it on the patient.

4. Venturi Mask

• Flow Rate: Depends on color-coded adaptors (e.g. blue = 2 L/min, green = 12 L/min)

• OSCE Tip: Know the color codes of valves. As per the prescription chart, identify and connect the removable adapter or valve. Different colors of valves depend on the percentage of O2. Attach the appropriate valve as prescribed oxygen from the prescription.

5. Ventilators

• Flow Rate: A Specialised form of pressure positive ventilation. As per the life support need
• Used for: The patient’s lungs are severely impaired
• OSCE Tip: Mostly not asked in exams, but worth knowing.

 Final Exam Tips

• Always check the patient’s oxygen saturation (SpO₂) before and after re-assess after 30 minutes of oxygen administration.
•  Read the oxygen prescription accurately.
•  Ensure to choose a specific mask as per the prescription.
• Document everything clearly and accurately.

Administering oxygen therapy is a vital clinical skill—and one that’s commonly tested in the NMC OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination). Understanding the different types of oxygen masks, when to use them, and how they function could be the difference that would be helpful in the exam.

Practice your skills in a simulated environment, and don’t forget to stay calm and communicate clearly with the patient and the assessor during the exam.

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