Oxygen therapy supports life and supports combustion. While there are many benefits to inhaled oxygen, there are also hazards and side effects. Anyone involved in the administration of oxygen should be aware of potential hazards and side effects of this medication. Oxygen should be administered cautiously and according to the safety guidelines listed in Table 5.4. Table 5.4 Oxygen Safety Guidelines for Home and Hospital Additional Information Oxygen is essential to life, but as a drug it has both a maximum positive benefit and an accompanying toxicity effect. The toxic effects from oxygen therapy can occur based on the condition of the patient and the duration and
intensity of the oxygen therapy. For example, with normal lung function, a stimulation to take another breath occurs when a patient has a slight rise in PaCO2. The slight rise in PaCO2 stimulates the respiratory centre in the brain, creating the impulse to take another breath. In some patients with a chronically high level of PaCO2, such as those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], the stimulus and drive to breathe is caused by a
decrease in PaO2. This is called a hypoxic drive. When administering oxygen to patients with known CO2 retention, watch for signs of hypoventilation, a decreased level of consciousness, and apnea. Oxygen therapy can have harmful effects, which are dependent on the duration and intensity of the oxygen therapy. See Table 5.5 for precautions and complications of oxygen therapy. Table 5.5 Precautions and Complications of Oxygen Therapy Precautions Never deprive any patient of oxygen if it is clinically indicated. It is usually acceptable to administer
whatever concentration of oxygen is needed to maintain the SpO2 between 88% and 92% in patients with known chronic CO2 retention verified by an ABG. This reduction in alveolar volume results in a form of collapse called absorption atelectasis. This situation also causes an increase in the physiologic shunt and
resulting hypoxemia. For this reason, oxygen should be administered
so that appropriate target saturation levels are maintained. Supplemental oxygen should be administered cautiously to patients with herbicide poisoning and to patients receiving bleomycin. These agents have the ability to increase the rate of development of oxygen toxicity.Guideline
Oxygen is a medication.
Remind patient that oxygen is a medication and should not be adjusted without consultation with a physician or respiratory therapist.
Storage of oxygen cylinders
When using oxygen cylinders, store them upright, chained, or in appropriate holders so that they will not fall over.
No smoking
Oxygen supports combustion. No smoking is permitted around any oxygen delivery devices in the hospital or home environment.
Keep oxygen cylinders away from heat sources.
Keep oxygen delivery systems at least 1.5 metres from any heat source.
Check for electrical hazards in the home or hospital prior to use.
Determine that electrical equipment in the room or home is in safe working condition. A small electrical spark in the presence of oxygen will result in a serious fire. The use of a gas stove, kerosene space heater, or smoker is unsafe in the presence of oxygen. Avoid items that may create a spark [e.g., electrical razor, hair dryer, synthetic fabrics that cause static electricity, or mechanical toys] with nasal cannula in use.
Check levels of oxygen in portable tanks.
Check oxygen levels of portable tanks before transporting a patient to ensure that there is enough oxygen in the tank.
ABGs should be ordered for all critically ill patients on oxygen therapy.
High concentrations of oxygen therapy should be closely monitored with formal assessments [pulse oximetry and ABGs].
Data source: British Thoracic Society, 2008; Perry et al., 2014
Precautions and Complications of Oxygen Therapy
Complications
Oxygen-induced hypoventilation/ hypoxic drive
If patients with a hypoxic drive are given a high concentration of oxygen, their primary urge to breathe is removed and hypoventilation or apnea may occur. It is important to note that not all COPD patients have chronic retention of CO2, and not all patients with CO2 retention have a hypoxic drive. It is not commonly seen in clinical practice. Absorption actelectasis
About 80% of the gas in the alveoli is nitrogen. If high concentrations of oxygen are provided, the nitrogen is displaced. When the oxygen diffuses across the alveolar-capillary membrane into the bloodstream, the nitrogen is no longer present to distend the alveoli [called a nitrogen washout]. Oxygen toxicity
Oxygen toxicity, caused by excessive or inappropriate supplemental oxygen, can cause severe damage to the lungs and other organ systems. High concentrations of oxygen, over a long period of time, can increase free radical formation, leading to damaged membranes, proteins, and cell structures in the lungs. It can cause a spectrum of lung injuries ranging from mild tracheobronchitis to diffuse alveolar damage. Data source: British Thoracic Society, 2008; Perry et al., 2014.
Critical Thinking Exercises
What are 3 special precautions that must be observed when a patient is receiving oxygen?
Place “Oxygen in Use” signs in visible areas. Never place the tank or machine near an open flame [e.g., matches, lit candles, a stove in use]. Keep the oxygen tank at least six feet away. Always turn your oxygen off when not in use.
Avoid using electrical appliances such as hairdryers and razors while oxygen is in use. Make sure you have smoke alarms in your house. Keep the oxygen equipment clean and dust free. Always plug your oxygen concentrator into a grounded electrical outlet.
If you or a loved one is prescribed supplemental oxygen therapy, here's what you need to know to stay safe..
Don't Smoke Anywhere Near Oxygen..
Keep Oxygen Canisters Away From Open Flames..
Switch to a Non-Electric Razor..
Pass on Petroleum-Based Lotions and Creams..
How to Use Oxygen Safely..
Oxygen makes things burn much faster. Think of what happens when you blow into a fire; it makes the flame bigger. If you are using oxygen in your home, you must take extra care to stay safe from fires and objects that might burn.