Which patient would indicate the need for oxygen therapy using a low-flow device?

Oxygen therapy using a low-flow device is particularly suitable for patients who require supplemental oxygen but do not have a significant risk of respiratory distress or hypoxemia that requires high-flow oxygen. Among the presented choices, a postoperative patient often experiences temporary hypoxia due to anesthesia effects, pain, or limited mobility, and may require supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels. Low-flow devices are generally sufficient for maintaining target oxygen levels in this population while minimizing the risks associated with higher flows.

Postoperative patients usually have intact respiratory drive and can adapt to fluctuating oxygen levels that low-flow systems provide, making this approach appropriate for their needs. In contrast, patients with pneumonia and respiratory distress may require higher flow rates to counteract the increased work of breathing and maintain adequate oxygenation. Patients with heart failure, while they may also benefit from supplemental oxygen, often present with compromised gas exchange and might need careful titration of therapy, which might not be optimal with low-flow devices alone. Hence, the choice of a postoperative patient receiving low-flow oxygen therapy aligns well with the target of minimizing risks while ensuring adequate oxygenation.