Name

oxygen

Class

Naturally occurring atmospheric gas

Description/Mechanism

Oxygen is an oderless, tasteless, colorless gast that is present in room air at a concentration of approximately 21%. It is necessary for aerobic metabolism where it serves as the ultimate receptor of electrons released during the oxidation of fuel (i.e. glucose, lipids, etc). It helps reduce the size of infarcte tissue during an AMI (in patients who are hypoxemic on room air)

Onset

Immediate

Duration

Less than 2 min

Indications

Confirmed or suspected hypoxia

Ischemic chest pain

Respiratory insufficiency

Prophylactically during air transport

Confirmed or suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and other causes of decreased tissue oxygenation.

Contraindications

Oxygen should never be withheld from any critical patient

Adverse Reactions

Combustion

Drug Interactions

None significant

Supplied

Oxygen cylinders

Dose/Administration

Adult

10-15 lpm via non-rebreather mask (high flow)

1-4 lpm via nasal cannula (low flow)

Pediatric

Same as for adult

Special Consideration

Pregnancy Safety: NA

Oxygen vigorously supports combustion.