What should be done if a non-rebreather mask's reservoir bag remains fully inflated during inhalation for a carbon monoxide poisoning patient?

When treating a patient with carbon monoxide poisoning using a non-rebreather mask, it is crucial that the mask fits securely against the patient's face. If the reservoir bag remains fully inflated during inhalation, this indicates that the mask might not be tight enough, allowing air to leak in and preventing the patient from receiving the concentrated oxygen needed for effective treatment.

By sealing the mask against the patient's face, the healthcare professional can ensure that the patient is receiving a higher percentage of oxygen without dilution from ambient air. This is critical because carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin more readily than oxygen and can significantly impair oxygen delivery to tissues. Therefore, ensuring an airtight seal helps maximize the efficacy of the therapy and can improve patient outcomes in cases of carbon monoxide exposure.

The other choices may not adequately address the issue at hand. Increasing the oxygen flow might lead to more oxygen but won't solve the problem of ineffective delivery if the mask is not sealed. Switching to a nasal cannula would be inappropriate as it cannot deliver the high concentrations of oxygen needed in this emergency situation. Reducing the flow to 10 L/min would also be counterproductive as it could decrease the amount of oxygen available to the patient at a critical time. Hence, sealing the mask against the patient’s face is