What is the primary benefit of using Heliox over 100% O2 in a patient with strider?

Using Heliox, a mixture of helium and oxygen, offers the primary benefit of decreased density of gas, which reduces turbulence of flow when treating a patient with stridor. Stridor often indicates upper airway obstruction or narrowing, which can result in turbulent airflow through constricted passages.

Helium is significantly less dense than oxygen, and when mixed with oxygen, it creates a lighter gas that allows for smoother laminar flow. This reduction in turbulence helps in facilitating more efficient airflow, thus reducing the work of breathing and alleviating the airway obstruction effect.

This property is particularly beneficial in clinical scenarios where minimizing work of breathing is critical, as it can lead to improved gas exchange and better overall respiratory function in patients with stridor. While the other options have their respective considerations in respiratory therapy, they do not address the unique mechanical advantages that Heliox provides in managing stridor.