Nursing Care of Patients Receiving Oxygen

• What should be checked at the beginning of every shift for patients receiving oxygen?

  Flow rate and equipment
• How often should respiratory status be assessed for patients receiving oxygen?

  Every 1 to 4 hours
• How may SpO2 be assessed?

  Continually or intermittently
• What should be checked if the SpO2 probe is on the finger continuously?

  Skin integrity
• How should the oxygen delivery rate be adjusted?

  Based on SpO2 and breathing changes
• Why is frequent oral care necessary for patients receiving oxygen?

  Oxygen is drying
• How much fluid should patients receiving oxygen aim to hydrate daily?

  1500-2000 mL
• What should be monitored for patients receiving oxygen therapy?

  Nosebleeds and skin breakdown
• Why is tubing considered a safety hazard in oxygen therapy?

  It can cause choking and should be kept clean
• What should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider?

  Significant decreases in O2 saturation levels
• How should changes in oxygen flow rates be made?

  In 5% to 10% increments
• How should changes in litre flow be adjusted?

  In 1 to 2 L increments
• When should respiratory status be reassessed after changes to oxygenation levels?

  After 5 minutes
• What should be considered if O2 saturation levels are not maintained?

  Changing the O2 delivery device
• What should be done during patient transfer regarding oxygen therapy?

  Do not pause oxygen therapy
• What should be done in an emergency situation regarding oxygen?

  Apply O2 and obtain an order later
• What is a typical order for oxygen therapy?

  Titrate oxygen to keep SpO2 ≥ 95%
• What should be used to guide oxygen therapy decisions?

  Clinical judgment