Which type of mask is used in over 90% of patients experiencing hypoventilation?

The full face mask is commonly used in over 90% of patients experiencing hypoventilation because it effectively covers both the nose and mouth, allowing for the delivery of positive pressure ventilation to a wider area. This is particularly important in cases where patients may have difficulty breathing through their nose alone or when they need to breathe through their mouth due to various conditions, such as obstruction or significant respiratory distress.

Moreover, the full face mask helps in ensuring a proper seal, which is critical for effective non-invasive ventilation. It minimizes air leaks and maximizes the efficiency of the ventilatory support being provided. This is vital for patients who have hypoventilation, as they require consistent and reliable airflow to improve their respiratory status.

In contrast, other types of masks like nasal masks and nasal pillows may not provide adequate support for patients who are unable to maintain effective ventilation through the nose. An oral mask is not commonly used in noninvasive ventilation as it is less effective for delivering positive pressure to both the oral and nasal passages. Therefore, the full face mask is the preferred option in this scenario.