What is the purpose of a flow meter in oxygen delivery systems?

A flow meter serves a critical function in oxygen delivery systems by regulating and measuring the flow of oxygen delivered to a patient. This precise control is essential because patients often require a specific amount of oxygen based on their medical condition, and too little or too much can be harmful.

The flow meter allows healthcare providers to set the desired flow rate, often measured in liters per minute, ensuring that the patient receives a consistent and controlled supply of oxygen. Accurate flow measurement is vital for effective treatment and is integral to many therapeutic protocols that depend on prescribed oxygen levels.

In contrast, measuring the concentration of oxygen is a different function that may require other specialized equipment. Heating oxygen or filtering impurities, while important for ensuring safety and comfort, are not the primary functions of a flow meter. Thus, the ability to regulate and measure the oxygen flow is the core responsibility of the flow meter in oxygen delivery systems.