During mobilization planning, how should oxygen delivery be managed?

• A. Use only nasal cannula regardless of needs.
• B. Choose an appropriate oxygen modality (nasal cannula, simple mask, high-flow, NIV) with humidification as needed, monitor tolerance, and escalate if needed.
• C. Never humidify oxygen during mobilization.
• D. Oxygen settings should not be adjusted during mobilization.

Answer: (B)

During mobilization, oxygen delivery must adapt to the patient’s changing needs as activity increases. The best approach is to select an appropriate oxygen delivery modality—ranging from nasal cannula to a simple mask, high-flow systems, or noninvasive ventilation—and use humidification as needed. Monitor tolerance closely, including oxygen saturation, heart rate, breathing effort, and patient comfort. If desaturation, increased work of breathing, or intolerance occurs, escalate support promptly by increasing flow, switching to a more capable interface, or adding NIV as indicated. Humidification helps maintain mucosal comfort and airway function, especially with higher flows or longer use. Oxygen settings should be adjusted during mobilization to maintain target saturations and meet the patient’s work of breathing, rather than sticking to a single modality or keeping settings fixed.