When using a Portable Oxygen Bottle (POB) on an infant, how should the mask be used?

The use of a Portable Oxygen Bottle (POB) on an infant requires careful consideration of the infant’s comfort and oxygen needs. Applying the mask continuously may not be practical or effective, as infants often need movement and may resist having a mask on at all times. Suggesting that a parent use the mask intermittently provides a flexible approach that ensures the infant receives oxygen when most needed while allowing for breaks where the mask can be removed. This intermittent use can help reduce stress for the infant and create a more manageable situation for both the infant and the parent.

Holding the mask at all times without letting go would restrict movement and may create discomfort for the infant, potentially leading to ineffective oxygen therapy. Using the POB only when the infant is sleeping could also limit the effectiveness of the treatment, as the infant may need oxygen at different times throughout the day, not just during sleep. Therefore, recommending intermittent use balances the need for oxygen with the infant's developmental needs.