Pre‐oxygenation–how long?

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Abstract
Summary: Pre‐oxygenation was studied in 12 fit volunteers and 20 patients using an oxygen flow of 8 litres/minute delivered from a standard anaesthetic machine via a Magill or Bain breathing attachment. End‐tidal nitrogen concentrations of 4% or less were achieved within 3 minutes; the fastest times were achieved using the Magill breathing System when the reservoir bag was filled with oxygen prior to application to the face. Gas‐tight fits of face masks on patients were found to be essential.
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