Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen therapy is a medical treatment that involves the administration of oxygen as a therapeutic agent to help increase oxygen levels in the body.

Indications

• Hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels)
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pneumonia
• Asthma
• Cystic fibrosis
• Heart failure
• Anemia
• Carbon monoxide poisoning

Methods of Administration

• Nasal cannula: a tube that delivers oxygen directly into the nostrils
• Face mask: a mask that covers the nose and mouth to deliver oxygen
• Venturi mask: a type of face mask that uses a valve to control the flow of oxygen
• Non-rebreather mask: a type of face mask that delivers high concentrations of oxygen
• Hyperbaric oxygen chamber: a sealed chamber that delivers pure oxygen at higher-than-normal pressures

Benefits

• Increases oxygen levels in the blood
• Relieves shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
• Reduces fatigue and weakness
• Supports heart function
• Aids in wound healing

Risks and Side Effects

• Oxygen toxicity: high concentrations of oxygen can cause lung damage or other complications
• Dryness of the nasal passages, mouth, and throat
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased risk of fire due to the presence of oxygen

Contraindications

• Bleomycin therapy: a chemotherapy medication that can increase the risk of lung damage from oxygen therapy
• Certain types of pneumonia, such as those caused by the bacteria Pneumocystis jirovecii

Monitoring and Maintenance

• Pulse oximetry: a non-invasive test that measures blood oxygen levels
• Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis: a blood test that measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood
• Regular monitoring of oxygen flow rates and delivery systems to ensure safe and effective therapy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is oxygen therapy?
A treatment that provides extra oxygen to the body.

Why is oxygen therapy used?
To help increase oxygen levels in the blood.

Who needs oxygen therapy?
People with breathing problems or low oxygen levels.

How is oxygen therapy given?
Through a mask, tube, or nasal cannula.

What are the benefits of oxygen therapy?
Improves breathing, reduces shortness of breath.

Are there different types of oxygen therapy?
Yes, including supplemental and hyperbaric oxygen.

How long does oxygen therapy last?
Varies depending on individual needs.

Can oxygen therapy be done at home?
Yes, with a portable oxygen tank or concentrator.

Are there risks to oxygen therapy?
Yes, such as fire hazard and oxygen toxicity.

How is oxygen therapy monitored?
With pulse oximetry and blood gas tests.