Oxygen therapy and Nebulisers Flashcards
Purpose of Oxygen Administration
To maintain tissue oxygen To eliminate compensatory response to hypoxia (Hypoxia is lack of oxygen) To prevent damage to vital organs & tissues To provide psychological support
Methods of Oxygen administration
Face mask Nasal prongs/catheters Humidicrib Head box Ventilator Oxygen tent
Amount of Oxygen for each equipment
Respiratory System Diagram
Safety issues related to oxygen support
Oxygen supports combustion. Implement safety precautions to reduce risk of fire. Smoking is prohibited in the vicinity
Can Dry and irritate Mucous Membranes
Care must be given to ensure all connections are tight
Nosocomial infections can occur using oxygen therapy. Masks and tubing are single use only and discarded after patient is discharged. Clean mask and nebulisers regularly (every 8 hours)
Safe Practice for Oxygen Therapy and Oxygen Cylinder stafety
Oxygen should be used strictly according to the prescribed amount because of the danger of switching off the patient’s hypoxic drive.
Correct Cylinder - Black and White
Check size required and Level left in cylinder
Make sure it’s secure
Don’t place next to heat
Turn it off when not in use
“No smoking” “Hazard” signs
No naked flames
Care with electrical equipment, static electricity, friction toys
Do not use oil or grease.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of:
Oxygen Mask
Nasal prongs\cannula
Nasal catheter
Oxygen tent
Nursing actions with oxygen therapy and the rational behind them
- Assist with oral and nasal hygiene* - oxygen is drying to the mucosa, which can lead to discomfort and skin breakdown
- Monitor equipment and flow rate* - measures to maintain safety and security include ensuring that the prescribed concentration of oxygen is delivered and that tubing has not become kinked or disconnected
- Position Correctly* - upright, orthopneic positions allow optimal lung expansion
- Monitor condition of individual* - to avoid too high or too little oxygen being administered. Person should be observed for signs of hypoxia or oxygen toxicity.
What is a nebuliser? And who needs one?
Equipment which is used to add moisture or medication to inpired air by mixing various size particles with the air.
Moisture helps to improve removal of respiratory secretions.
The individual may require the use of a nebuliser to:
- relieve inflammation of air passages
- loosen secretions, to facilitate expectoration/coughing
- reduce drying and irritation of the mucous membrane
- deliver medications eg to relieve broncospasm
- may be used to either prevent or relieve asthma
What is Vital Capacity
The maximum amount of air exhaled after a maximum inhilation
What is tidal volume
Amount of air taken in and exhaled in one breath
What is residual volume?
The amount of air left in the lungs following the deepest possible exhalation
What is Peak expiratory flow rate
Measurement of most rapid flow during a forced expiration after a maximum inspiration
Lung function tests
- *Pulse oximetry** - measures oxygen saturation levels in blood (peripheral) 95-100% normal
- *Arterial blood gases** - measures oxygen, CO2 and pH levels in blood
- *Spirometry**
- Peak flow- peak expiratory flow rate
- incentive breathing devices (tri-flo) encourages maximum ventilation, lung expansion during inspiration
- blowing bubbles, balloons (expiration)
How to Deep Breath and why?
Uses the diaphragm and abdominal muscles to fully aerate the lungs
Should be taught preoperatively
Sitting position - optimal lung expansion
Inhale deeply and slowly, pushing abdomen out
Exhale through pursed lips, while contracting abdomen
