Oxygen Therapy

Is the administration of oxygen at concentartions greater than that in ambient air with the intent of treating or preventing the symptoms and manifestation of hypoxia.

Parts of the Oxygen Tank:

Regulator – use to release O2 safely with a desirable rate.

– controls rate of oxygen output

Flow rate meter – indicates # of liters per minute of O2 being released

Pressure Gauge – the one nearest to the tank which shows the pressure or amount of oxygen in the tank.

Precautions when administering Oxygen:

1.Avoid open flames in patients room such as burning candles & striking match.

2.Place “NO SMOKING” signs in conspicuous places in the patient’s room.

3. Check all electrical equipments. Ensure that it emits no sparks.

4. Avoid wearing & using synthetic fabrics.

5. Avoid using oil, or wearing clothing stained with oil in the area.

Clinical Alert: Oxygen is used very conservatively on anyone with chronic lung disease because high levels of oxygen will disrupt carbon dioxide center & lead to respiratory arrest.

1.Administration of Oxygen Therapy by Nasal Cannula.

Description: This equipments the simplest method & the one best set tolerated by most patients.

Cannula-is a disposable plastic device with two protruding prongs for insertion into the nostrils

Equipments: Oxygen supply

Regulator

Humidifier

Nasal Cannula

PROCEDURE:

1.Explain purpose & procedures of oxygen to patient

R- To alleviate anxiety & gain patient’s cooperation

2. Take actions to minimize fire hazards.

3. Attach humidifier bottle to regulator & attach nasal cannula to connecting tube of water reservoir.

R- Prevents dryness & irritation of nasal mucosa

4. Lubricate cannula prongs with water soluble lubricant & start flow of Oxygen at 2-4 LPM

R- Oil soluble lubricants emit heat.

5. Place prongs in patient’s nostrils. Prongs should curve outward in nostrils. Position tubing over & behind each ear & slide the adjuster under skin so that the cannula fits snugly but comfortably.

R- Correct placement of prongs & fastener facilitates oxygen administration & comfort for the patient.

6. Use gauze pads as necessary under nostril, cheeks or behind the ears,

R- To reduce irritation & pressure.

7. Instruct patient to breath through nose.

R- For maximum efficiency of cannula.

8. Monitor vital signs & check patient’s condition frequently.

R- To note any signs of distress.

9. Provide nose care at least every four (4) hours.

R- To promote comfort & prevent dryness of nasal mucosa.

10. Change equipment daily (tubing and cannula)

III. Administration of Oxygen by Face Mask

Description: The use of disposable & reusable face mask for oxygen.

Points to Remember:

1. Mask should be fitted carefully to the patient’s face to avoid leakage of oxygen

2. Mask should be comfortable, snug but not too tight against the patient’s face.

Types of Face Mask:

1.Disposable Plastic Mask- simplest, less expensive; with open vents for elimination of exhaled air.

Types of Face Masks:1.Simple Face Mask - Delivers oxygen concentrations from 40% to 60% at liter flows of 5 to 8 liters per minute, respectively.2.Partial Rebreather Mask – Delivers oxygen concentration of 60% to 90% at liter flows of 6 to 10 liters per minute, respectively.3.Non Rebreather Mask – Delivers the highest oxygen concentration possible 95% to  100% – by means other than intubation4. or mechanical ventilation, at liter flows of 10 to 15 liters per minute.4.Venturi Mask – Delivers oxygen concentrations varying from 24% to 40% or 50% at liter flows of 4 to 10 liters per minute.

2. Concentration Mask- Designed to supply specific concentration of oxygen up to about 40%. This mask permits the more precise administration of oxygen at low concentration.

3. Partial Rebreathing Mask- No respiratory valve so that the beginning portion of exhaled air returns to the bag & mixes with

the inspired air. Ports are present so that expired air escapes.

4. Nonbreathing Mask- Provides highest concentration for the patient & offers the most precise method of administration. With valve which closes during expiration so that any exhaled air is forced thru the expiratory valve on the face piece.

5. Venturi Mask- Use to control low oxygen concentration; Allows a fixed predicted FIO2 to be delivered. It is utilized effectively on patients with COPD when accurate FIO2 is necessary for proper treatment. CO2 build up is kept at minimum.

EQUIPMENTS: Oxygen mask, Oxygen source, Flow-meter, Humidifier

PROCEDURES:

1.Explain procedure & rationale for administering oxygen to patient.

R- To relieve anxiety & gain patient’s cooperation.

2. Observe precautions to prevent fire

R- Oxygen supports combustion

3. If used, attach a water humidifier bottle to the oxygen regulator or flow meter.

R- Humidifiers prevent mucosal dryness.

4. Measure size of face mask for patient’s use

R- To make sure it fits the patient.

5. Turn on oxygen flow to LPM (prescribed). If reservoir bag is attached, partially inflate it with oxygen.

R- So that the patient will not feel suffocated as the mask is fit.

6. Place patient in semi or higher fowler’s position

R- To promote maximum vital capacity

7. Fit mask to patient’s face from nose downward during expiration. If reservoir bag is attached, oxygen flow must be at level.

R- A tight fit prevents oxygen from escaping around eyes or nose.

8. Place elastic band around patient’s head

R- To avoid mask displacement.

9. Attach tubing to pillows & bed keeping tubing free of kinks.

R- To facilitate a good oxygen flow

10. Use gauze pads on patient’s ear & scalp.

11. Instruct patient to breath thru nose if nasal mask has been used.

12. Stay with the patient until patient feels at ease with the mask.

R- Some patient may be afraid of the mask

13. Asses patient’s condition frequently

R- To monitor any signs of distress

14. Remove & clean face mask every 2-3 hrs. if oxygen is running continuously.

R- Promotes comfort.

15. Check the equipment & water level of humidifier frequently.

16. Observe for any change in patient’s condition.

17. Check with physician to order a nasal cannula during meals.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z46Fjmj2sCM&feature=related