Oxygen toxicity. What EMS providers need to know about possible complications from oxygen administration.
The administration of oxygen is safe and effective for patients who are in respiratory distress or who are hypoxic. Never feel that oxygen needs to be withheld. However, keep in mind that there are real consequences to the long-term utilization of high-flow oxygen. To help prevent potential complications from oxygen administration, reach for the nasal cannula before the non-rebreather mask, and apply just enough oxygen to maintain normal saturations.
Vitalink/Airlink in Wilmington, NC, USA. kcollopy@colgatealumni.org
Kevin T
KT
Collopy
Sean M
SM
Kivlehan
Scott R
SR
Snyder
D004634:Emergency Medical Technicians; D006801:Humans; D010100:Oxygen / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects*; D014481:United States
D010100:Oxygen