UT-Harris County Psychiatric Center
Nursing Procedures

 

Emergency Oxygen Administration

Nursing

Harris County Psychiatric Center: Office Administration

Emergency supplemental oxygen is used in conditions that may cause hypoxemia

oxygen tanks, emergency oxygen, airway obstruction, pulmonary edema, acute respiratory failure, cardiac disorders, metabolic disorders, shock

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston

 

 

Oxygen description

Date of Last Review: 3/22/07
SME: Associate Director of Nursing

Oxygen is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, gas used to treat disorders that may cause hypoxemia.  Qxygen also supports combustion and presents a possible fire hazard.

When is oxygen used?

Emergency supplemental oxygen is used in conditions that may cause hypoxemia.  Such conditions include, but are not limited to:

·         Airway obstruction

·         Pulmonary edema

·         Acute respiratory failure

·         Cardiac disorders

·         Metabolic disorders

·         Shock

Who orders emergency oxygen use?

A physician orders emergency oxygen prior to administration.

Exception:  An R.N. may initiate emergency oxygen with a flow of no more than 2-2.5 liters/minute.  A physician’s order must be obtained after initiating oxygen and must be documented in the medical record.

Who may administer oxygen?

Oxygen may be administered by a:

·         Physician

·         Registered Nurse competent in oxygen use as follows:

–   Indications

–   Management

–   Methods of administration

–   Hazards

Where are oxygen tanks stored?

Emergency supplemental oxygen (O2) tanks are located on carts in each treatment room between all of the units in the hospital.

Oxygen fire prevention

Prior to use of oxygen, the following preventive measures are taken to reduce the risk of fire:

·         Assure that all electric plugs and electrical equipment are properly grounded

·         Do not allow smoking in the presence of oxygen

·         Refrain from the use of spark-producing electrical appliances

·          Never use oil on oxygen equipment.  Note:  If lubricants are necessary, use a water-based lubricant jelly

·         Prevent static electricity

Required signage

All areas that house oxygen must have a universal oxygen hazardous material sign.  (These areas are identified by the sign on the door)

Related standard