Fixed performance oxygen masks. Hypoxic hazard of low-capacity drugs.

Four recently introduced low-capacity fixed performance oxygen therapy masks have been compared with the established Ventimask design. Under conditions of varying peak inspiratory flow rate the low-capacity devices all permit a variable amount of air admixture with a consequent fall in the inspired oxygen concentration. It is concluded that low-capacity venturi masks are not true fixed performance devices under all circumstances. The Ventimasks satisfy their specifications under all test conditions. A case is made for more rigorous assessment of new so-called "fixed performance" oxygen therapy devices before marketing is permitted.