Understanding Why Oxygen Is Given to Patients
Welcome to this edition of the First Aid Show. Today, we’ll explore the crucial role of oxygen therapy in treating patients with various health conditions.
The Importance of Oxygen in Medical Care
Oxygen sustains life-sustaining processes, making it a common intervention in medical settings. By increasing the oxygen level in the blood, oxygen therapy ensures vital organs, especially the brain, receive enough oxygen to function properly.
Assessing Oxygen Needs
Medical professionals start by measuring a patient’s oxygen saturation levels to determine how much oxygen the blood carries:
- Measurement Technique: Oxygen saturation is typically measured using a pulse oximeter placed on a patient’s finger, ear, or toe.
- Target Oxygen Levels: For healthy adults, ideal oxygen saturation levels range from 96% to 100%.
When Is Oxygen Administered?
Medical teams provide supplemental oxygen when a patient’s oxygen levels drop below normal:
- When saturation falls below the normal range, additional oxygen ensures vital organs receive adequate oxygen.
- For patients with chronic conditions like COPD or habitual smokers, target oxygen saturation levels may be set lower based on their usual range.
Tailoring Oxygen Treatment
It’s essential to tailor oxygen therapy to each patient’s needs:
- Adjust treatment based on the patient’s health condition and typical oxygen saturation levels.
- Continual monitoring optimizes oxygen delivery while preventing complications like oxygen toxicity.
Conclusion: Optimizing Patient Care with Oxygen Therapy
“Why is oxygen given to a patient?” It’s to ensure every patient receives the proper level of oxygenation to support their body’s functions during treatment. Understanding when and how to use oxygen therapy effectively is crucial for health professionals to deliver the best care.