A patient who is suspected of being hypoxic and is breathing adequately should be given supplemental oxygen with a:

In the case of a patient suspected of being hypoxic who is breathing adequately, the nonrebreathing mask is the most effective choice for delivering supplemental oxygen. This type of mask can provide a high concentration of oxygen, typically around 80-90%, which is particularly beneficial for a hypoxic patient who needs immediate support to improve oxygen saturation levels.

The nonrebreathing mask has a reservoir bag that allows for the accumulation of oxygen, and it also features one-way valves that prevent exhaled air from re-entering the bag. This design ensures that the patient receives a fresh supply of oxygen with each breath, effectively combating hypoxia.

While other methods of oxygen delivery such as nasal cannulas can provide supplemental oxygen, they typically deliver lower concentrations and may not be sufficient for a patient with significant hypoxia. Mouth-to-mask devices and bag-valve masks are alternatives primarily used in situations where the patient is unable to breathe adequately on their own or for patients who are in respiratory distress, rather than for those who are breathing adequately. Thus, the nonrebreathing mask is the most appropriate choice here for maximizing oxygen delivery to a patient who is suspected to be hypoxic but still breathing adequately.