Equipment

Question 1

Oxygen Equipment

Answer 1

After surgery, some patients require supplemental oxygen. Patients who have respiratory disorders might require oxygen in the hospital and at home. Patient care technicians work with many patients who require oxygen therapy. Because oxygen is a medication, the provider must prescribe the flow rate and method of delivery. Only a licensed provider can initiate oxygen therapy, but you need to be familiar with the equipment to monitor patients and report any changes in their status to the nurse.

Question 2

Oxygen Equipment

Answer 2

In the hospital setting, oxygen delivery is usually through a wall-mounted system using a valve and a flow meter. If the patient is ambulatory, a portable oxygen tank is needed. Most often, a nasal cannula delivers oxygen to the patient. However, a face mask can be used depending on the patient’s condition and oxygen prescription.

Question 3

Safety Guidelines

Answer 3

1. Make sure there is adequate signage in the patient’s room, such as “Oxygen in Use” or “No Smoking.” Oxygen supports combustion.
2. Avoid using electrical equipment such as electric razors and heating pads and make sure all electrical devices are in good working condition.
3. Keep oxygen cylinders away from heat sources.
4. Make sure oxygen tubing has no kinks and is not a tripping hazard.
5. Know the location of fire extinguishers in your facility.

Question 4

Steps To Take

Answer 4

Gather supplies. If the patient has a prescription for oxygen delivery by nasal cannula, place a nasal prong in each nostril and then loop the tubing over and behind the patient’s ears. Adjust the tubing to a comfortable position under the chin. Add padding to the tubing against the skin. If the provider prescribes oxygen by face mask, place the mask over the patient’s nose and mouth. Place the strap over the patient’s head and behind the ears. Adjust to a comfortable position using the straps and nose clip. Assess the functioning of the equipment. For a nonrebreather mask, the bag connected to the mask should expand when the patient exhales but should not totally collapse when inhaling.

Question 5

Complications

Answer 5

Oxygen can cause the patient’s nasal cavity and mouth to become dry. If the patient is receiving oxygen at a flow rate greater than 4 L/min or has symptoms of dryness, attach the flow meter to a humidifier. Check that the humidifier is bubbling and that the level of water does not get too low. Applying water-soluble lubricant to the nares and providing oral care frequently can also make the patient more comfortable.

Question 6

Complications

Answer 6

When caring for the patients receiving oxygen therapy, monitor for symptoms of hypoxia.
1. Anxiety
2. Lack of concentration or focus
3. Fatigue
4. Hypertension
5. Cyanosis (bluish discoloration)
6. Dyspnea
7. Increase or decrease in heart rate or respiratory rate

Question 7

Complications

Answer 7

Notify the nurse immediately if you observe the following
1. Pulse oximetry reading less than 90%
2. Portable oxygen tank is almost empty
3. Discrepancy between the prescribed oxygen flow rate and the flow rate on the flow meter
4. Any sudden change in patient’s condition
Do not change or adjust the flow rate of oxygen. Always check with the nurse before removing oxygen from the patient.

Question 8

Suction Equipment

Answer 8

Patients can require suctioning to remove mucus, blood, vomit, secretions, or other substances from their mouth and throat to keep their airways open. Suctioning a patient’s airway is a task a nurse might delegate to you, depending on the stability of the patient and your allowed job duties. Check your facility’s and State’s scope of practice regulations before performing suctioning. Oropharyngeal suctioning (mouth and throat) is most common after surgery.