Oxygen

• Oxygen

• O2

Classification:

• Elemental gas

Mechanism of Action:

• Increases the arterial pressure of oxygen therefore improving gas exchange and oxygen delivery to tissues provided that there are functional alveolar units.

Indications:

• Hypoxia
• Respiratory distress
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Acute coronary syndrome
• ROSC
• Stroke
• Major trauma

Contraindications:

• None

Precautions:

• Caution with CO2 retainers

Adverse Effects:

• Light-headedness
• Respiratory failure in a small number of patients who are CO2 retainers

Dose:

• SpO2 Ranges: 
  • Ischemic chest pain: 94-99%
  • ROSC: 94-99%
  • Sepsis: 100%
  • Stroke: 92-99%
  • Major trauma: 100%
  • Respiratory distress: >92%
  • Patient with COPD: 88-92%

• Oxygen tanks of 3 sizes:
  • M = 3000 L volume (tank factor 1.56)
  • E = 660 L volume (tank factor 0.28)
  • D = 400 L volume (tank factor 0.16)
• Note: Calculation for time remaining in tank equals = ([Pressure on gauge – 200 psi] x tank factor)/Flow rate (lpm)

•  If patients are within their targeted oxygen saturation, it is not necessary to administer supplemental oxygen.

• Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)