Nursing care plan for oxygen therapy

Introduction to Oxygen Therapy Care Plans

Oxygen therapy is a medical intervention that supplements the patient’s inhalation of oxygen either through ambient air or through supplemental oxygen devices. It is used to improve the vascular system, reduce inflammation, and increase cellular oxygenation. The goal of oxygen therapy is to achieve better oxygen saturation levels in the patient.

Assessment of Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen delivery device: The type of oxygen delivery device chosen is based on the patient's age, body composition, and medical condition. Examples of oxygen delivery devices include humidifiers, oxygen masks, tracheostomy tubes, and noninvasive ventilation.

Medical history: It is important to assess the patient's medical history, including any medications and underlying conditions, in order to ensure that oxygen therapy will not exacerbate any existing medical issues.

Pulse oximetry readings: Pulse oximetry is a noninvasive technique used to measure the amount of oxygen in the blood. Pulse oximetry readings are taken before, during, and after oxygen therapy to track the patient's oxygen levels.

Nursing Diagnosis for Oxygen Therapy

• Ineffective breathing pattern: This nursing diagnosis implies that the patient is having difficulty breathing or their breathing pattern is below normal.
• Ineffective airway clearance: This diagnosis indicates that the patient is unable to clear their airways on their own, and they must use supplemental oxygen to do so.
• Decreased cardiac output: This diagnosis suggests that there is insufficient blood flow to the heart, which can cause decreased oxygen delivery to the rest of the body.
• Ineffective tissue perfusion: This diagnosis implies that the tissues in the body are not receiving enough oxygen to function properly.

Outcomes for Oxygen Therapy

The expected outcomes from administering oxygen therapy include an improved oxygen saturation level, an improved symptom status, an improved quality of life, and an increased ability to achieve activity goals.

Interventions for Oxygen Therapy

• Administer prescribed oxygen: Oxygen therapy must be given according to the patient's doctor or another health care professional's prescription.
• Assess vital signs: The nurse must regularly monitor the patient's pulse, respirations, and blood pressure in order to determine the effectiveness of the oxygen therapy.
• Monitor oxygen saturation levels: A pulse oximeter is used to check the patient's oxygen saturation level and make sure it is not too high or too low.
• Perform suctioning: Suctioning removes secretions or obstructions in the airway that can impede the delivery of oxygen.

Rationales for Oxygen Therapy

• Reduced respiratory effort: Supplemental oxygen can reduce the workload on the patient's respiratory system and help them breathe easier.
• Pain relief: Oxygen can help reduce pain due to hypoxia (lack of oxygen) by increasing the oxygen levels in the bloodstream.
• Infection prevention: Oxygen therapy helps to prevent infection by providing adequate oxygen to fight off bacteria and viruses.
• Increased energy level: Higher oxygen levels can help improve circulation and increase the patient's energy levels.

Evaluation of Oxygen Therapy

At the end of the oxygen therapy, the nurse must evaluate the patient's response and effectiveness of the therapy. This can include monitoring the patient's oxygen saturation level, assessing their symptoms, and promoting adherence to the regimen.

Conclusion

Oxygen therapy is an effective treatment for reducing hypoxia and improving oxygen saturation levels. The nurse's role in oxygen therapy is to assess the patient, administer oxygen according to the doctor's prescription, monitor the patient's vital signs, and evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy.

FAQs

1. What is the aim of oxygen therapy?
   The aim of oxygen therapy is to improve oxygen saturation levels in the patient.
2. How often should oxygen therapy be given?
   Oxygen therapy should be given according to the doctor's prescription.
3. What devices can be used for oxygen delivery?
   Humidifiers, oxygen masks, tracheostomy tubes, and noninvasive ventilation are some of the devices available for oxygen delivery.
4. What are the outcomes of oxygen therapy?
   The outcomes of oxygen therapy include an improved oxygen saturation level, an improved symptom status, an improved quality of life, and an increased ability to achieve activity goals.
5. What is the nurse’s role in oxygen therapy?
   The nurse's role in oxygen therapy is to assess the patient, administer oxygen according to the doctor's prescription, monitor the patient's vital signs, and evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy.