Oxygen therapy is a medical intervention that involves the administration of oxygen to patients whose blood oxygen levels are lower than normal. This treatment is crucial for individuals with respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, asthma, heart failure, and acute conditions like trauma where tissue oxygenation may be compromised. The objective of oxygen therapy is to maintain optimal oxygen saturation levels, typically between 94-98% for most patients and 88-92% for those with COPD, thereby ensuring that vital organs receive adequate oxygen to function effectively. The first step in oxygen therapy is the assessment of the patient’s respiratory status, which includes measuring blood oxygen levels using pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis. Based on these readings, the healthcare provider determines the need for supplemental oxygen and selects the appropriate delivery method.

There are various methods of delivering oxygen, including nasal cannulas, simple face masks, Venturi masks, and non-rebreather masks. Nasal cannulas, which are tubes placed in the nostrils, are commonly used for patients requiring low to moderate oxygen supplementation. In contrast, face masks, including Venturi masks that deliver a precise oxygen concentration, are used for higher requirements. Non-rebreather masks are used in critical situations requiring high oxygen concentrations without rebreathing exhaled carbon dioxide. Once the device is selected, it is connected to an oxygen source, and the flow rate is adjusted according to the prescribed level. Continuous monitoring of the patient's oxygen saturation and respiratory status is essential to ensure the therapy is effective and to adjust the oxygen flow as needed. Complications such as oxygen toxicity and carbon dioxide retention must be monitored, and healthcare providers must educate patients and caregivers on the safe use and maintenance of oxygen equipment.