What is the purpose of flow verification during oxygen therapy setup?

• A. To verify the device's battery level.
• B. To check room humidity.
• C. To confirm regulator accuracy.
• D. To confirm regulator accuracy and ensure delivered flow matches the prescribed FiO2.

Answer: (D)

Flow verification during oxygen therapy setup ensures that the system delivers the exact amount of oxygen prescribed and that the resulting FiO2 reaching the patient matches the order. It isn’t about battery level or room humidity; those factors don’t determine the actual flow entering the patient’s airway. What matters is that the regulator is accurate and that the delivered flow at the patient interface matches what was prescribed, taking into account any humidifiers, adapters, or tubing in the setup. By confirming both regulator performance and the actual delivered flow, you ensure the patient receives the intended therapy and avoid under- or over-oxygenation.