Oxygen Therapy and Respiratory Techniques

Flashcards for reviewing concepts related to Oxygen Therapy, pulmonary function, and related respiratory conditions.

What is the essential gas required for human survival?

Oxygen (O2) is essential to life.

How long can a human survive without oxygen before suffering irreversible brain damage?

4-6 minutes.

What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

To exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the external environment and the circulatory system.

What are the main anatomical features of the lungs?

Bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli.

What is the function of alveoli in the lungs?

They are the sites where oxygen and carbon dioxide gas are exchanged.

What is the pleural cavity?

It is composed of the membranes lining the lungs and the chest cavity.

What must radiographers ensure regarding O2 therapy equipment?

They must ensure that it does not become a source of infection and is used for a single patient.

What happens if oxygen equipment is completely removed for a radiograph?

It should never be completely removed to obtain a radiograph.

What is 'pulmonary function'?

It refers to the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide efficiently.

What does ABG stand for in respiratory terminology?

Arterial Blood Gases.

What condition is referred to when arterial blood gases become inadequate?

Hypoxemia.

What is hypoxia?

Deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues.

List one sign of hypoxia.

Rapid pulse.

What is the average respiration rate for adults?

12-20 breaths/min.

What is the goal of oxygen therapy?

To maintain adequate tissue oxygenation while minimizing cardiopulmonary work.

When is oxygen therapy indicated?

To correct hypoxemia or suspected tissue hypoxia.

What percentage of oxygen delivery is harmful to the lungs?

100% oxygen.

What does FiO2 represent?

Fractional concentration of inspired oxygen.

What is the usual flow rate of oxygen through nasal cannula?

1 to 4 LPM.

What is a nasal cannula used for?

Delivery of oxygen to patients.

What is the flow rate requirement for a simple oxygen mask?

Greater than 5 LPM.

What type of mask is designed for the highest concentration of oxygen delivery?

Non-rebreather mask.

What is the usual concentration of oxygen delivered by a non-rebreather mask?

Around 60% to 100%.

What is the purpose of thorcacostomy tubes?

To drain fluid or air from the pleural space.

What is pneumothorax?

A collection of air in the pleural space.

How is correct placement of an Endotracheal tube confirmed?

With a chest X-ray (CXR).

What is the normal range for oxygen saturation in arterial blood?

95% to 100%.

What device measures oxygen saturation in arterial blood?

Pulse oximeter.

What is the significance of a SaO2 level less than 70%?

It is life-threatening.

What must be maintained when suctioning a tracheostomy?

Sterile technique.

What is atelectasis?

A collapsed lung or incomplete lung expansion.

What type of conditions lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

A group of lung diseases characterized by limited airflow.

What is emphysema characterized by?

Overinflation of the alveolar walls.

What conditions may indicate the use of a ventilator?

Severe respiratory distress or inability to breathe adequately.

What should be done if a chest tube is accidentally disconnected?

Clamp the drainage tube, cover the wound with a sterile dressing, and seek medical assistance.

What does desaturation of oxygen indicate?

Insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues.

Where is the chest tube inserted to drain fluids from the lung?

5th and 6th intercostal space laterally to the mid-axillary line.

How do you remove air from the lung using a chest tube?

Insert the tube at the 2nd and 3rd intercostal space.

What is thoracentesis?

Surgical puncture of the chest to remove air or fluids.

What are the potential consequences of inadequate placement of oxygen therapy equipment?

Superimposition over anatomy in radiographs.

What is the importance of oxygen therapy in patients with COPD?

To maintain adequate oxygen levels and prevent respiratory failure.

What is the purpose of humidifying oxygen?

To prevent excessive drying of the mucous membranes.

How is oxygen primarily transported in the body?

Bound to hemoglobin in red blood cells.

What should be avoided in the area of oxygen therapy?

Smoking and any potential sources of ignition.

What is parenteral administration?

Introduction into the body by a route other than the digestive system.

What are the two main types of oxygen delivery devices?

Low flow and high flow devices.

What does hypoxemia refer to?

Insufficient oxygen saturation in the blood.

What condition is characterized by lung abscesses or pus in the pleural space?

Empyema.

What should patients do while a chest tube is in place?

Frequent deep breathing and coughing.

What may indicate the need for additional oxygen during chest tube management?

Breathing difficulties or visible air leaks.

Aerosol Mask:

A device used to deliver medication through inhalation, suitable for patients requiring supplemental oxygen and aerosol therapy.

Air-entrainment Mask:

A mask that uses ambient air to mix with oxygen, allowing for precise delivery of oxygen concentrations to patients with respiratory issues.

Anemia:

A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen transport in the body. It can result in fatigue, weakness, and pallor.

Arterial Blood Gases (ABGs):

Blood tests that measure oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels in arterial blood, used to assess respiratory function and metabolic balance.

Asthma:

A chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing.

Cardiopulmonary Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD):

A group of lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. COPD is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke.

Cyanosis:

A bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood.

Emphysema:

A progressive lung disease characterized by the destruction of the alveoli, resulting in reduced surface area for gas exchange and difficulty in breathing.

Empyema:

A collection of pus in the pleural cavity, often resulting from pneumonia or infection that leads to pleural effusion.

Endotracheal Tube (ET):

A medical device used to maintain an open airway and facilitate ventilation by being inserted into the trachea.

Hemothorax:

A condition where blood accumulates in the pleural cavity, usually due to trauma or injury, leading to respiratory distress and reduced lung function.

High Flow O2 Delivery Devices:

Medical devices that provide oxygen at higher rates than standard methods, ensuring adequate oxygenation in patients with severe respiratory distress.

Hyperpnea:

An increased depth and rate of breathing, often in response to increased metabolic demand or respiratory conditions.

Low Flow O2 Delivery Devices:

Devices that provide oxygen at lower flows, typically used for patients requiring less oxygen support, allowing for a more variable oxygen concentration.

Nares:

The openings of the nose that allow air to enter and exit the respiratory system, crucial for normal breathing.

Nasal Cannula:

A device used to deliver supplemental oxygen directly into the nostrils, allowing for effective gas exchange while enabling the patient to speak and eat.

Non-rebreather Mask:

A high-flow oxygen delivery device that covers the nose and mouth, equipped with a reservoir bag, allowing for maximal oxygen concentration while preventing rebreathing of exhaled air.

Oxygen Hood:

A transparent container that fits over a child's head, providing a controlled oxygen environment while allowing for observation and easy access for care.

Oxygen Tent:

A soft, portable enclosure that provides a humidified oxygen environment for pediatric patients, allowing for effective oxygen delivery while ensuring comfort and mobility.

Parenteral:

Referring to the delivery of substances, such as nutrients or medications, by injection rather than through the digestive tract, often used in medical settings for patients unable to eat or absorb food normally.

Partial rebreather Mask:

A type of oxygen mask that allows a patient to inhale a mix of room air and oxygen while retaining some exhaled air in a reservoir bag, helping to increase oxygen saturation.

Pulmonary Function:

Tests that measure lung capacity, volume, and gas exchange efficiency to assess respiratory health.

Simple Oxygen Mask:

A type of oxygen delivery device that covers the nose and mouth, allowing a patient to receive a higher concentration of oxygen while still permitting some room air to enter.

Thoracentesis:

A medical procedure to remove fluid or air from the pleural space using a needle or catheter, primarily to relieve pressure on the lungs or diagnose conditions.

Thoracostomy Tubes:

Medical devices inserted into the chest cavity to drain fluid or air, facilitating lung expansion and improving respiratory function.

Tracheostomy:

A surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the trachea to facilitate breathing when normal airflow is obstructed or to provide long-term ventilation support.

Venous Access Devices:

Devices used to access the venous system for administering medications, fluids, or for drawing blood. These include central lines, peripheral catheters, and ports.