Oxygen therapy is a vital intervention used in healthcare to treat patients with respiratory insufficiencies. Administering oxygen therapy involves providing supplemental oxygen to patients to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels in the blood. This therapy is essential in various clinical settings, including emergency care, intensive care units, and chronic care management.
Table of Contents
- What is Oxygen Therapy?
- Purpose of Oxygen Therapy
- Indications of Oxygen Therapy
- Contraindications for Oxygen Therapy
- Oxygen Delivery Systems
- Devices Used in Oxygen Therapy
- Steps in Administering Oxygen by Cannula, Face Mask, or Face Tent
- References
What is Oxygen Therapy?
Oxygen therapy is a medical treatment that involves providing supplemental oxygen to patients who are experiencing hypoxemia, or low blood oxygen levels. This therapy helps improve oxygenation in the blood, thereby ensuring that vital organs and tissues receive sufficient oxygen to function properly. It is commonly used in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, heart failure, and during surgical recovery. Oxygen therapy can be delivered through various devices, including nasal cannulas, face masks, and mechanical ventilators, depending on the patient’s needs and the severity of their condition.
Purpose of Oxygen Therapy
The primary goals of oxygen therapy are to:
- Increase arterial oxygen levels. Ensuring sufficient oxygen levels in the blood helps maintain adequate tissue oxygenation and prevent hypoxia.
- Reduce the work of breathing. By providing supplemental oxygen, the therapy eases the effort required by the respiratory muscles, allowing for more comfortable and efficient breathing.
- Decrease the workload on the heart. Enhanced oxygen delivery reduces the strain on the heart, particularly beneficial in patients with cardiac conditions, as the heart does not have to pump as hard to circulate oxygenated blood.
- Alleviate symptoms of hypoxemia, such as shortness of breath and fatigue. Improving blood oxygen levels helps relieve symptoms associated with low oxygen, enhancing patient comfort and overall quality of life.
Indications of Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy is indicated in various clinical situations to enhance oxygenation and support the patient’s respiratory function. Here are some key conditions where oxygen therapy is essential, along with the rationale for its use:
- Acute respiratory distress. In acute respiratory distress, patients experience severe difficulty breathing and inadequate oxygenation. Oxygen therapy provides immediate relief by increasing the oxygen supply, helping to stabilize the patient and prevent further complications such as respiratory failure.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD patients often have chronically low oxygen levels due to obstructed airflow. Long-term oxygen therapy helps maintain adequate blood oxygen levels, reduces the risk of complications such as pulmonary hypertension, and improves overall quality of life by easing breathing and increasing exercise tolerance.
- Pneumonia. Pneumonia causes inflammation and fluid accumulation in the lungs, impairing gas exchange. Supplemental oxygen helps ensure sufficient oxygen reaches the bloodstream, alleviating hypoxemia and supporting the body’s efforts to fight the infection and heal the lung tissue.
- Asthma exacerbations. During an asthma attack, the airways become narrowed and inflamed, leading to reduced oxygen intake. Oxygen therapy helps to quickly restore adequate oxygen levels, providing critical support while other treatments, such as bronchodilators and steroids, take effect.
- Heart failure. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to poor oxygen delivery to tissues. Oxygen therapy improves oxygenation, reduces the work of the heart, and alleviates symptoms such as shortness of breath, making it easier for the heart to function.
- Post-operative recovery. After surgery, patients may experience reduced lung function due to anesthesia, pain, or immobility. Oxygen therapy ensures adequate oxygen levels during the critical recovery period, preventing hypoxia and promoting healing.
- Acute myocardial infarction. During a heart attack, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen due to blocked coronary arteries. Oxygen therapy helps to reduce the workload on the heart, preserve myocardial tissue, and alleviate symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath.
- Hypoxia due to trauma or shock. Trauma or shock can lead to significant blood loss or circulatory failure, resulting in inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues. Oxygen therapy is crucial in stabilizing the patient by improving oxygenation, supporting vital organ function, and preventing further deterioration.
Contraindications for Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy, while essential for many conditions, may have contraindications or be used with caution in certain situations. Here’s a list of common contraindications or considerations:
- Hypoventilation. In patients with hypoventilation, excessive oxygen can reduce the respiratory drive further, potentially leading to respiratory depression or failure.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) with CO2 Retention. In COPD patients, high levels of oxygen can exacerbate hypercapnia (elevated CO2 levels) and lead to respiratory acidosis or further respiratory depression.
- Certain Types of Pneumothorax. Oxygen therapy can exacerbate a pneumothorax (air in the pleural space) in some cases, particularly if the condition is not well-managed.
- Inflammatory Lung Conditions. In conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or severe pneumonia, excessive oxygen can sometimes cause additional lung damage or worsen inflammation.
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Oxygen therapy at high pressures (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) should be avoided or used cautiously in patients with certain conditions, such as untreated pneumothorax or certain types of cardiovascular conditions, due to the risk of barotrauma and other complications.
- Absence of a Clear Diagnosis. Administering oxygen therapy without a clear diagnosis or proper indication can mask underlying conditions and delay appropriate treatment, so it should be carefully considered and monitored.
- Oxygen Toxicity Risk. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of oxygen can lead to oxygen toxicity, causing damage to lung tissues and central nervous system effects, such as seizures.
- Certain Cardiovascular Conditions. In patients with certain cardiovascular conditions, like severe heart failure or unstable angina, high concentrations of oxygen may need to be managed carefully to avoid worsening the condition.
Oxygen Delivery Systems
Oxygen delivery can be achieved through low-flow and high-flow systems, with the choice depending on the patient’s oxygen requirements, comfort, and developmental needs. Low-flow systems use small-bore tubing and include devices such as nasal cannulas, face masks, oxygen tents, and transtracheal catheters. These devices allow the patient to breathe in room air along with supplemental oxygen, so the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) can vary based on respiratory rate, tidal volume, and the flow rate of oxygen.
High-flow systems, on the other hand, provide a precise and consistent amount of oxygen regardless of the patient’s breathing pattern. The Venturi mask, equipped with large-bore tubing, is a high-flow device that delivers a specific and steady FiO2, ensuring the patient receives an accurate concentration of oxygen during ventilation.
Devices Used in Oxygen Therapy
Oxygen therapy utilizes various devices to deliver supplemental oxygen to patients, tailored to their specific needs. Low-flow systems, such as nasal cannulas and face masks, provide oxygen in lower concentrations and are ideal for patients requiring modest increases in oxygen levels. High-flow systems, including Venturi masks and high-flow nasal cannulas, deliver precise and higher concentrations of oxygen, making them suitable for patients with more severe respiratory issues. Each device plays a crucial role in ensuring effective oxygen delivery and patient comfort. Understanding the distinctions between these systems helps in selecting the appropriate therapy for optimal patient outcomes Here are the common types of oxygen therapy devices, including their usage:
Low-Flow Systems
Low-flow systems deliver oxygen through narrow-bore tubing. Devices used for low-flow oxygen administration include nasal cannulas, face masks, oxygen tents, and transtracheal catheters.
- Nasal Cannula. A nasal cannula consists of a thin tube with two small prongs that are inserted into the nostrils. This low-flow device is comfortable and convenient for patients who need a small to moderate amount of supplemental oxygen (up to 6 liters per minute). It allows for easy mobility and communication, making it suitable for long-term oxygen therapy in patients with chronic conditions like COPD.
- Face Mask. Face masks cover the nose and mouth, delivering oxygen through a mask that fits snugly over the face. Face masks provide higher oxygen concentrations than nasal cannulas (up to 10 liters per minute). They are used for patients who require moderate to high oxygen levels or who cannot tolerate nasal cannulas. Different types of face masks include simple face masks, partial rebreather masks, and non-rebreather masks, each offering varying levels of FiO2.
- Face Tent. Face tents can be used as an alternative to oxygen masks when masks are poorly tolerated by patients. They deliver varying concentrations of oxygen, typically ranging from 30% to 50% at flow rates of 4 to 8 L/min. Regularly check the patient’s facial skin for signs of dampness or chafing, and address any issues by drying and treating the skin as necessary. As with face masks, it is important to keep the patient’s facial skin dry to avoid irritation.
- Partial Rebreather Mask. A face mask with an attached reservoir bag that captures exhaled gases. Provides higher oxygen concentrations (60-90% FiO2) by allowing the patient to re-inhale some of the exhaled oxygen-rich air. It is used for patients needing higher oxygen levels without a significant increase in CO2 retention.
- Oxygen Tent. Oxygen tents are large, transparent enclosures that surround the patient’s bed. Oxygen tents are often used for pediatric patients who require a controlled oxygen environment. They provide a humidified oxygen-rich atmosphere, which is beneficial for children with respiratory infections or other conditions needing supplemental oxygen without the discomfort of wearing a mask.
- Transtracheal Catheter. Transtracheal catheters are small tubes inserted directly into the trachea through a surgically created opening. This device delivers oxygen directly into the trachea, allowing for efficient oxygenation at lower flow rates compared to other methods. It is suitable for patients requiring long-term oxygen therapy, particularly those who do not tolerate nasal cannulas or masks well.
High-Flow Systems
High-flow systems provide all the necessary oxygen for ventilation in exact amounts, independent of the patient’s breathing pattern. Devices that deliver a precise and consistent fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) include the Venturi mask with large-bore tubing, the non-rebreather mask, high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), and mechanical ventilators.
- Venturi Mask. The Venturi mask is a high-flow device with large-bore tubing that delivers precise and consistent concentrations of oxygen. The Venturi mask is ideal for patients who require a specific and stable FiO2, such as those with COPD. It works by mixing oxygen with room air through adjustable entrainment ports, providing accurate oxygen delivery regardless of the patient’s respiratory pattern.
- Non-Rebreather Mask. A face mask with a reservoir bag and one-way valves to prevent rebreathing exhaled air. Delivers the highest oxygen concentration available with face masks (up to 100% FiO2) at flow rates of 10-15 liters per minute. It is used in emergency situations or for patients with severe hypoxemia.
- High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC). A nasal cannula that delivers a high flow of warmed and humidified oxygen. Provides precise and high concentrations of oxygen (up to 100% FiO2) while maintaining comfort and allowing for better tolerance than traditional face masks. It is beneficial for patients with acute respiratory failure or severe hypoxemia.
- Mechanical Ventilator. Mechanical ventilators are advanced medical devices designed to assist or replace spontaneous breathing in patients who are unable to breathe adequately on their own. These machines deliver controlled breaths of air, often enriched with oxygen, to the patient’s lungs through a variety of interfaces, including endotracheal tubes, tracheostomy tubes, or non-invasive masks.
Steps in Administering Oxygen by Cannula, Face Mask, or Face Tent
Here are the steps for administering oxygen using a cannula, face mask, or face tent:
Assessment
The following are the steps for assessing the administration of oxygen using a cannula, face mask, or face tent:
1. Assess patient’s skin and mucous membrane color.
Evaluating the color of the skin and mucous membranes helps identify signs of cyanosis, which indicates inadequate oxygenation. The presence of mucus or sputum production can provide insight into respiratory conditions like infection or chronic bronchitis. Impairment of airflow, suggested by changes in color or sputum characteristics, can signal obstructive issues or the need for further intervention.
2. Assess patient’s breathing patterns.
Monitoring the depth and rate of respirations, as well as abnormal patterns such as tachypnea (rapid breathing), bradypnea (slow breathing), or orthopnea (difficulty breathing when lying flat), helps assess the severity of respiratory distress and the effectiveness of oxygen therapy. These patterns provide clues about the underlying respiratory or cardiac conditions and guide adjustments in treatment.
3. Assess patient’s chest movements.
Observing chest movements and looking for retractions (intercostal, substernal, suprasternal, supraclavicular, or tracheal) during breathing can indicate respiratory distress or compromised lung function. Retractions suggest increased work of breathing or airway obstruction and may require prompt intervention.
4. Assess patient’s chest wall configuration.
Identifying abnormalities in chest wall configuration, such as kyphosis (abnormal curvature of the spine), barrel chest (increased anteroposterior diameter), or unequal chest expansion, helps assess the impact of chronic respiratory conditions or deformities on lung function. These observations assist in planning appropriate interventions and monitoring progression.
5. Auscultate patient’s lung sounds.
Auscultating the lungs provides information about the presence of abnormal sounds such as wheezing, crackles, or decreased breath sounds, which can indicate conditions like asthma, pneumonia, or pleural effusion. Early detection of abnormal lung sounds helps guide treatment adjustments and interventions.
6. Assess presence of clinical signs of hypoxemia.
Monitoring for signs of hypoxemia (such as tachycardia, tachypnea, restlessness, dyspnea, cyanosis, and confusion) helps gauge the severity of oxygen deprivation. Early signs like tachycardia and tachypnea suggest mild to moderate hypoxemia, while confusion indicates severe oxygen deprivation requiring immediate intervention.
7. Assess presence of clinical signs of hypercarbia (hypercapnia).
Observing signs of hypercarbia (e.g., restlessness, hypertension, headache, lethargy, tremor) helps identify elevated carbon dioxide levels, which can occur in conditions like COPD. Recognizing these signs is crucial for adjusting oxygen therapy to prevent respiratory acidosis and ensure proper gas exchange.
8. Monitor patient’s vital signs.
Regularly monitoring vital signs, especially pulse rate and quality, along with respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth, provides essential information about the patient’s overall cardiovascular and respiratory status. Changes in vital signs can indicate deterioration or improvement and help guide further treatment decisions.
9. Determine whether the patient has COPD.
In COPD patients, a high carbon dioxide level may be the primary stimulus for breathing rather than low oxygen levels. Monitoring arterial blood gas levels (PaO2 and PaCO2) is crucial to prevent oxygen-induced hypercapnia, which can lead to respiratory complications.
10. Determine results of diagnostic studies.
Reviewing diagnostic studies such as chest x-rays provides detailed information about lung pathology, including conditions like pneumonia, pneumothorax, or pleural effusion. These findings help in tailoring the oxygen therapy and overall treatment plan.
11. Determine patient’s hemoglobin, hematocrit, and complete blood count.
Assessing these blood parameters helps evaluate the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and detect anemia or polycythemia, which can affect oxygen delivery and tissue perfusion.
12. Determine patient’s oxygen saturation levels.
Measuring oxygen saturation levels (SpO2) with a pulse oximeter provides real-time information on the effectiveness of oxygen therapy and helps ensure that the patient is receiving adequate oxygenation.
13. Determine patient’s arterial blood gas levels.
Analyzing arterial blood gases (ABGs) provides comprehensive information on the patient’s acid-base balance, oxygenation, and ventilation status. This data is critical for fine-tuning oxygen therapy and addressing any underlying respiratory or metabolic imbalances.
14. Determine patient’s pulmonary function tests.
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) assess lung volumes, capacities, and flow rates, offering insight into the patient’s respiratory status and potential underlying conditions. These tests help guide long-term management and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing therapy.
Delegation
Starting oxygen therapy is regarded as a procedure similar to administering medication and should not be delegated to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). However, UAPs may assist by reapplying the oxygen delivery device, and they can observe and document various aspects of the patient’s response to the therapy during routine care. Any abnormal findings must be verified and interpreted by the nurse, who is also responsible for confirming that the appropriate delivery method is being used.
Implementation
The following are vital measures for administering oxygen therapy with a cannula, face mask, or face tent:
1. Determine the need for oxygen therapy, and verify the order for the therapy.
Assessing the need for oxygen therapy involves evaluating clinical indicators such as oxygen saturation levels, respiratory rate, and signs of hypoxemia (e.g., cyanosis, dyspnea). This is crucial because oxygen therapy is only warranted when there is a documented deficiency in oxygen levels or impaired respiratory function. Proper assessment ensures that the therapy is applied appropriately, preventing unnecessary treatment or delays in addressing oxygenation needs. Verifying the physician’s order ensures that the oxygen therapy is administered according to the prescribed flow rate, method, and duration. This step is essential for ensuring accuracy and consistency in treatment. It also helps avoid errors in oxygen delivery, which can lead to complications such as over-oxygenation or insufficient oxygenation. Confirming the order ensures that the therapy aligns with the patient’s specific clinical needs and treatment plan.
2. Prepare the patient and support people.
Preparing the patient and support people involves explaining the purpose and process of oxygen therapy, addressing any concerns, and ensuring they understand how to support the patient. This preparation helps reduce anxiety, enhances cooperation, and ensures that everyone is informed about the necessary procedures and precautions.
3. Assist patient to a semi-Fowler’s position if possible.
Positioning the patient in a semi-Fowler’s position (sitting at an angle between 30 and 45 degrees) can facilitate optimal lung expansion and improve ventilation. This position helps reduce the pressure on the diaphragm and allows for better oxygenation of the blood. Additionally, it can aid in the comfort of the patient and reduce the risk of complications such as aspiration.
4. Before initiating oxygen therapy, introduce self and confirm the patient’s identity according to the agency’s protocol.
This ensures that the correct patient receives the therapy, enhancing patient safety and compliance with protocols.
5. Provide a clear explanation of the procedure, including its purpose and necessity, and inform the patient about how they can be involved. Additionally, discuss how the results of the oxygen therapy will guide future care decisions or treatments.
This helps the patient understand the intervention, which can alleviate anxiety and improve their cooperation. This also involves the patient in their treatment plan, making them more engaged and providing clarity on how the therapy outcomes will influence ongoing care decisions.
6. Perform hand hygiene and observe other appropriate infection prevention procedures.
Hand hygiene is crucial for preventing the spread of infections and maintaining a sterile environment. Proper handwashing or use of hand sanitizer reduces the risk of transmitting pathogens. Adhering to infection prevention measures ensures that all protocols are followed to minimize the risk of infections and maintain patient safety and hygiene throughout the procedure.
7. Ensure patient privacy is maintained, when applicable.
Maintaining patient privacy respects the patient’s dignity and confidentiality, which is essential for building trust and ensuring a comfortable and safe environment. It also complies with legal and ethical standards for patient care.
8. Set up the oxygen equipment and the humidifier by following these steps:
- 8.1. Connect the flow meter to the wall outlet or oxygen tank, ensuring it is in the off position initially.
Attaching the flow meter in the off position prevents accidental oxygen flow during setup, ensuring safety and accuracy when adjusting the flow rate. - 8.2. If required, fill the humidifier bottle, preferably before approaching the patient.
Filling the humidifier bottle before bedside streamlines the process and minimizes disruption or delays in patient care. - 8.3. Securely attach the humidifier bottle to the base of the flow meter.
Connecting the humidifier bottle properly ensures that the oxygen delivered is adequately moisturized, improving patient comfort and preventing dryness in the airways. - 8.4. Connect the prescribed oxygen tubing and delivery device to the humidifier.
Attaching oxygen tubing and delivery device securely establishes the complete oxygen delivery system, allowing for effective and accurate administration of oxygen therapy.
9. Turn on the oxygen at the prescribed rate and verify its proper functioning by performing the following checks:
- 9.1. Ensure oxygen flow. Check that oxygen is flowing freely through the tubing, making sure there are no kinks and that all connections are airtight.
Verifying that the oxygen flows freely and that the tubing is unobstructed ensures that the patient receives the correct amount of oxygen. Airtight connections and lack of kinks prevent leaks or interruptions in therapy. - 9.2. Observe bubbles in the humidifier as the oxygen flows through.
Bubbles indicate that the humidifier is functioning correctly and that the oxygen is being properly moistened, which enhances patient comfort by preventing dryness. - 9.3. Confirm the oxygen at the outlets of the cannula, mask, or tent.
Feeling oxygen at the outlets ensures that the delivery devices (cannula, mask, or tent) are working as intended and that the patient will receive the oxygen. - 9.4. Set the flow rate.
Accurate flow rate adjustment ensures that the patient receives the prescribed amount of oxygen, which is critical for effective treatment and achieving desired therapeutic outcomes.
10. Apply the appropriate oxygen delivery device.
Nasal Cannula
- Position the cannula over the patient’s face, ensuring that the prongs fit snugly into the nostrils and the tubing is secured around the ears.
Proper placement of the prongs ensures effective delivery of oxygen directly into the nostrils, maximizing the therapeutic benefit. Securing the tubing around the ears helps maintain the correct positioning and prevents the cannula from shifting. - If the cannula does not remain in place, use tape to secure it to the sides of the face.
Using tape to hold the cannula in place prevents accidental displacement, which could disrupt the oxygen delivery and reduce the effectiveness of the therapy. - Apply padding to the tubing and band over the ears and cheekbones if needed to enhance comfort and prevent pressure sores.
Padding reduces pressure on the ears and cheekbones, improving patient comfort and preventing potential skin irritation or pressure sores, especially with prolonged use.
Face Mask
- Guide the mask toward the patient’s face, and apply it from the nose downward.
Applying the mask from the nose downward ensures that it covers both the nose and mouth adequately, optimizing the delivery of oxygen. - Fit the mask to the contours of the patient’s face.
Properly fitting the mask to the contours of the face creates a secure seal, preventing oxygen leakage and ensuring the patient receives the intended concentration of oxygen. - Secure the elastic band around the patient’s head so that the mask is comfortable but snug.
Adjusting the elastic band to be snug yet comfortable ensures the mask stays in place without causing discomfort, which helps maintain consistent oxygen delivery. - Pad the band behind the ears and over bony prominences.
Padding behind the ears and over bony prominences reduces pressure and prevents skin irritation or discomfort, especially during prolonged use of the mask.
Face Tent
- Place the tent over the patient’s face.
Proper placement of the face tent ensures that it effectively encloses the nose and mouth, delivering oxygen while allowing for some ambient air mixing. This is beneficial for patients who cannot tolerate a mask or have facial injuries. - Secure the ties around the head.
Tying the tent securely ensures that it remains in the correct position, which helps maintain consistent oxygen delivery and prevents it from shifting, which could lead to ineffective treatment.
11. Assess patient regularly.
Regular assessment of the patient is essential during oxygen therapy to ensure the treatment is effective and well-tolerated. Monitoring vital signs, anxiety levels, color, and ease of respiration helps evaluate the immediate response to the therapy and address any issues promptly, such as complaints of claustrophobia. Frequent assessments, typically every 15 to 30 minutes depending on the patient’s condition, allow for timely adjustments and interventions based on the patient’s evolving needs. Regular evaluations for clinical signs of hypoxia, tachycardia, confusion, dyspnea, restlessness, and cyanosis help detect any complications early and ensure the therapy is achieving its intended effect. Reviewing oxygen saturation or arterial blood gas results provides a quantitative measure of oxygenation, guiding adjustments to the therapy and ensuring optimal patient outcomes.
Nasal Cannula
- Regularly check the patient’s nostrils for any encrustations or irritation caused by the cannula. Applying a water-soluble lubricant can help soothe the mucous membranes and prevent discomfort or damage from prolonged use.
Assessing the nares ensures that the mucous membranes remain healthy and that any potential irritation is addressed promptly, which helps maintain patient comfort and adherence to the therapy. Applying lubricant reduces the risk of dryness and encrustation, which can cause discomfort and compromise the effectiveness of oxygen delivery. - Examine the tops of the patient’s ears for signs of irritation or pressure from the cannula tubing. Padding with a gauze pad can alleviate discomfort and prevent skin breakdown, especially with extended use.
Evaluating the ears identifies and addresses any discomfort or potential pressure sores caused by the cannula tubing, improving overall patient comfort. Padding the ears prevents skin irritation and pressure ulcers, which can be particularly problematic with long-term use of the cannula, thus ensuring sustained comfort and adherence to therapy.
Face Mask or Tent
- Regularly check the patient’s facial skin for any signs of dampness or chafing caused by the mask or tent.
Frequent inspection helps identify and prevent skin complications such as irritation or breakdown that can result from prolonged contact with the face mask or tent. Early detection allows for timely intervention. - Address any issues by drying the skin and providing appropriate treatment as needed.
Maintaining dry and healthy skin prevents discomfort and potential skin infections, which can arise from moisture accumulation or friction. Proper skin care ensures continued comfort and effectiveness of the oxygen therapy.
12. Frequently check the oxygen equipment to ensure it is functioning properly and delivering the correct amount of oxygen.
Inspecting equipment regularly ensures the equipment is functioning correctly and provides accurate oxygen delivery, preventing potential issues that could affect patient care.
- 12.1. Verify the liter flow rate and the water level in the humidifier every 30 minutes and during each patient care session to maintain accurate and effective oxygen delivery.
Monitoring liter flow and humidifier level maintains the appropriate oxygen concentration and moisture level, which is essential for patient comfort and effective therapy. - 12.2 Ensure that no water is collecting in the dependent loops of the tubing, as this can obstruct airflow and reduce the efficiency of oxygen delivery.
Checking for water accumulation prevents blockages in the tubing that could disrupt oxygen flow and compromise treatment efficacy. - 12.3. Confirm that all safety guidelines are being adhered to, including proper handling and storage of equipment, to prevent accidents and ensure the safe administration of oxygen therapy.
Following safety precautions ensures that all safety measures are in place to protect both the patient and healthcare staff, minimizing the risk of accidents and equipment malfunctions.
Documentation
Documentation facilitates effective communication among healthcare providers, supports continuity of care, and is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of the therapy.
13. Document findings in the patient record using forms or checklists supplemented by narrative notes when appropriate.
Accurate documentation ensures that all aspects of the oxygen therapy are properly recorded, providing a comprehensive account of the treatment provided and the patient’s response. This is crucial for continuity of care and for informing other healthcare providers.
References
- Berman, A., Snyder, S. J., & Frandsen, G. (2015). Kozier & Erb’s fundamentals of nursing: Concepts, process, and practice (10th ed.). Pearson.
- Kane, B., Decalmer, S., & O’Driscoll, B. (2013). Emergency oxygen therapy: From guideline to implementation. Breathe, 9(4), 246–253.
- Singhal, A. B. (2006). Oxygen therapy in stroke: Past, present, and future. International Journal of Stroke, 1(4), 191–200.
- Masclans, J. R., Pérez-Terán, P., & Roca, O. (2015). The role of high-flow oxygen therapy in acute respiratory failure. Medicina Intensiva (English Edition), 39(8), 505–515.