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

2. 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

3. 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

4. Oxygen is a medication and requires a physician order

5. 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

6. 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%)

7. 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
Dial 1 before your extension if stat

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