Oxygen Therapy for Radiation Therapists Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre 2014 Kendra Walt, RN, Interprofessional Educator

Types of Oxygen Delivery Devices at TBRHSC Nasal Cannula- Majority of outpatients on home O2 therapy. Used at flow rate of 1-6 lpm (24-45%) Well tolerated by most clients Oxy-Mask- Flow rate of 1-15 lpm and can be titrated based on meeting client’s needs

Signs and Symptoms of Respiratory Distress Physically laboured work of breathing (indrawing, accessory muscle use) Dyspnea- shortness of breath Tachypnea- respirations rate greater than 15bpm or higher than client’s normal rate Orthopnea- increased respiratory distress when the patient is laying down or chest is compressed Anxious face Restlessness Tachycardia Cyanosis

Oxygen is a medication and requires a physician order

Using a Portable O2 Tank Ensure the tank is upright and secure so that there is no risk of the tank tipping over. (a cylinder of compressed air can become a missile with uncontrollable force and direction) Check pressure gauge on front of tank to determine sufficient amount of oxygen in tank Connect tubing Open valve and slowly adjust needle to prescribed flow rate in litres per minute

Oxygen and Clients with COPD Oxygen is indicated for clients with COPD but is used conservatively. High levels of oxygen may suppress breathing stimulus, which will cause hypoventilation and co2 retention which can lead to respiratory arrest due to co2 necrosis Always deliver the least amount of oxygen required to meet the client’s needs. (usual target range of 88-92%)

Dial 1 before your extension if stat Consult Respiratory Therapist : for any patient with less than 90% saturation on 5 lpm via OxyMask if you are generally worried about the respiratory condition of you patient Pager 624-1060 Dial 1 before your extension if stat

Policies at TBRHSC Oxygen Titration (PAT-5-139)