Oxygen therapy

• Oxygen 


  • a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas
  • Slightly heavier than air
  • essential for life
  • optimum level must be maintained to

  sustain mental functioning

  • considered as a drug
• Oxygen therapy 


  administration of oxygen at a concentration greater than that found in the environmental atmosphere
• 1 to 2 


  how many liter per minute oxygen therapy
• HYPOXEMIA


  a decrease in the arterial oxygen tension in the blood
• HYPOXIA


  insufficient oxygen anywhere in the body
• OXYGEN CYLINDER


  usually painted green or has distinctive green markings
• Regulator 


  includes the pressure gauge, pressure-reducing valve & the flow meter

  • regulates oxygen pressure
  • allows delivery of oxygen to the patient at flow rates between 1 & 15 lpm
• PRESSURE GAUGE


  indicates how much oxygen remains in the cylinder

  • full tank - at least 2,000 pounds per square inch (psi)
  • Empty - less than 500 psi
• Humidifier 


  • adds water vapor to inspired air
  • provides 20% to 40% humidity
  • prevents mucous membranes from drying &

  becoming irritated

  • loosens secretions for easier expectoration