Oxygen (O2)

Question 1

General

Answer 1

• Natural gas
• Provided in medicinal form in a compressed cylinder
• Adapted for safe use in pre-hospital environment via face-mask, nasal cannula, & continuous positive airway pressure devices

Question 2

Classification

Answer 2

Naturally occurring atmospheric gas

Question 3

Action

Answer 3

• Essential for cell metabolism
• Provides adequate tissue oxygenation
• Assists in reversing Hypoxia by increasing inspired oxygen

Question 4

Indications

Answer 4

1. Critical illness/injuries requiring high flow of oxygen may include:
   - Cardiac arrest, major trauma, unconsciousness, GCS < 13, trauma in pregnancy, drowning & environmental emergencies, CO2 poisoning, acute shortness of breath, smoke inhalation, decompensation shock, etc.
2. Moderate illness/injury requiring medium/low doses of oxygen may include:
   - Altered LOC w/ no airway/breathing compromise, mild shortness of breath, minor trauma or during Entonox administration, etc.
3. Acute Myocardial Infarction/Suspected Cardiac Chest Pain:
   - Maintain target saturation of 95%

Question 5

Contraindications (Functional Inquiry & Physical Assessment)

Answer 5

None

Question 6

Cautions (Functional Inquiry & Physical Assessment)

Answer 6

None

Question 7

Side Effects

Answer 7

• Dries mucous membrane
• In exacerbation of COPD, high concentration of O2 may increase CO2 retention - close monitoring of respiratory system is essential

Question 8

Dosage

Answer 8

Dosage is based on PT presentation & O2 saturation (SpO2)

Question 9

Routes & Method of Administration

Answer 9

• Nasal Cannula (1-4 LPM)
• Standard Face Mask (6-10 LPM)
• Non-Rebreather Mask (10+ LPM)
• Bag-Valve Mask (15 LPM)

Question 10

Onset, Duration

Answer 10

• Onset -Immediate
• Duration - Whilst ever required [Until administration ends, I would imagine]