Oxygen therapy

Definition

Oxygen therapy is the administration of oxygen to patients with compromised pulmonary function in order to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood. It can be delivered via various devices such as nasal cannulas, masks, or ventilators.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxygen therapy is often prescribed for conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and asthma.
2. Nutritional status can influence the effectiveness of oxygen therapy; malnutrition may impair respiratory muscle function.
3. Excessive oxygen administration can lead to oxygen toxicity, particularly in patients with chronic lung diseases.
4. Proper hydration is essential for patients on oxygen therapy to keep mucus secretions thin and easily expectorated.
5. High-flow oxygen therapy can increase caloric needs due to increased work of breathing.

Review Questions

• What are the common devices used for administering oxygen therapy?
• How does malnutrition impact the effectiveness of oxygen therapy?
• Why is proper hydration important for patients receiving oxygen therapy?

Related terms

Nasal Cannula: A device used to deliver supplemental oxygen or increased airflow to a patient in need of respiratory help.

Hypercapnia:

An elevated level of carbon dioxide in the blood, which can occur if ventilation is insufficient during oxygen therapy.

Ventilator: A machine designed to move breathable air into and out of the lungs when a patient cannot breathe sufficiently on their own.