Oxygen Therapy

Breathing · General · 10–20 min

Delivery of supplemental oxygen to maintain SpO2 within a target range.

Indications

  • • Hypoxemia (SpO2 < 92% or < 88% in COPD)
  • • Shock
  • • Post-anesthesia

Contraindications

  • ⚠ Paraquat poisoning (relative)

Equipment

  • • Nasal cannula (1–6 L, FiO2 24–44%)
  • • Simple mask (5–10 L, 35–50%)
  • • Venturi (24–60%)
  • • Non-rebreather (10–15 L, ~85%)
  • • HFNC

Positioning

  • • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • • Explain risks & complications
  • • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • • Hand hygiene
  • • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • • Aseptic technique
  • • Sharps safety
  • • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/4)

Tap to complete

SpO2, RR, work of breathing, ABG if available.

Immediate complications

  • ⚠ CO2 retention in COPD

Delayed complications

  • • Oxygen toxicity
  • • Absorption atelectasis

Recognition

  • • Rising CO2
  • • Drowsiness

Initial management

  • • Titrate down; controlled O2 with Venturi

Prevention

  • • Target-based O2
  • • ABG monitoring

Post-procedure observation

  • • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • • Site inspection
  • • Symptom review

Documentation

  • • Procedure note
  • • Consent
  • • Findings

Patient instructions

  • • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds