Technique
Required materials:
- oxygen source: wall outlet, portable device, concentrated oxygen bottle or liquid oxygen unit;
- bubbler or humidifier – for O2 humidification;
- flow meter – an indicator used to regulate the amount of oxygen supplied to the patient and which is attached to the oxygen source;
- nasal cannula - which is inserted into the patient's nostrils;
- the endo-nasal probe - which is inserted into one of the nasal cavities at a distance equal to the distance from the wing of the nose to the tragus;
- oxygen glasses, oxygen tent (less often);
- mouth-nasal mask with or without rebreathing of exhaled air, used for patients who need oxygen therapy in the longer term.
- psychological - it is done to those who are aware, and consists of informing, explaining, obtaining consent;
- physically:
- the upper respiratory tract is unobstructed;
- the patient is instructed to stay in bed during administration and to avoid handling objects such as lighters, because oxygen is a combustible gas that sustains combustion;
- the distance from the nostril to the tragus is measured on the cheek;
- insert the sterile nasal probe at the measured distance and fix it with romplast on the cheek;
- apply the mask on the mouth and nose and fix it with the adjustable elastic band;
- adjust the pressure and administration flow to 4-6l/min. or according to the doctor's recommendation;
- the patient's behavior during oxygen therapy is monitored;
- the vital functions are monitored: B, P, B.P., the oxygen saturation of the arterial blood with the help of the pulse oximeter.
Patient care after the procedure:
- oral and nasal hygiene is ensured;
- observe the pressure points exerted by the probe, cannula or mask (there should be no injuries).