Oxygen

Aliases: 0₂

Indications: SpO2 < 94%, signs of respiratory distress or failure, signs of hypoxia or hypoxemia, exposure to toxic gasses        

Contraindications: None in the emergency setting 

Concentrations: 

Various sized oxygen tanks

Dosing

Adult:

Indication	Dose	Route	Note
Hypoxia	1-25 lpm	Inhaled	Titrate to saturation of 92-96%
Exposure to toxic gasses	15-25 lpm	Inhaled	Regardless of saturation
Pre-airway placement	25 lpm	Inhaled	Nasal Cannula before and during airway placement

Pediatric:

Indication	Dose	Route	Note
Hypoxia	1-25 lpm	Inhaled	Titrate to saturation of 92-96%
Exposure to toxic gasses	15-25 lpm	Inhaled	Regardless of saturation
Pre-airway placement	25 lpm	Inhaled	Nasal Cannula before and during airway placement

Precautions:    

Adverse/Side Effects: Excessive oxygenation can be harmful, especially with neonates, therefore titrate flow rates and frequently assess oxygen needs. Can dry mucous membranes, prolong high concentration therapy can affect respiratory drive and consciousness of COPD patients.

Class: Naturally occurring atmospheric gas  

Mechanism of Action: Reverses hypoxemia 

Onset of Action	Peak Effect	Duration of Action
Immediate	Rapid	<2 minutes