A Lifesaving Element: Oxygen Gas in Emergency Medicine and Respiratory Care

Unsurprisingly, oxygen gas plays a crucial role in emergency and respiratory care, serving as a lifesaving element in some of the most critical situations. Its significance cannot be overlooked from ambulances to the emergency rooms. 

At nexAir, we understand that your tasks are critical to the lives of your patients. That is why our team works hard to ensure you do not have the distraction of worrying about your gas supply. Leveraging our KnowHow of the healthcare industry and its unique needs has helped our customers Forge Forward in their careers of saving lives. 

Keep reading as we will discuss the essential role of oxygen in emergency medicine and respiratory care, along with its applications, benefits and the importance of its proper administration. 

Oxygen in emergency medicine

In emergency medicine, the administration of oxygen is typically the first line of defense in treating patients with respiratory distress or compromised oxygen levels. Whether it is from trauma, respiratory conditions like asthma, or cardiac arrest, supplemental oxygen can be the line between life and death. Emergency medical personnel are trained to assess a patient’s oxygen saturation levels and provide oxygen therapy as necessary. High-flow oxygen delivery systems like non-rebreather masks and nasal cannulas are commonly used to quickly and effectively deliver oxygen to patients in need. 

Oxygens critical role in medical emergencies

Further, oxygen is a huge component in the management of medical emergencies such as heart attacks, strokes or traumatic injuries. Providing high-concentration oxygen can help mitigate tissue damage and improve overall outcomes. Along with that, in pre-hospital care, oxygen is typically administered to stabilize patients before they reach the hospital, being there in that precious time before further interventions. 

Oxygen therapy and long-term benefits

In respiratory care, oxygen therapy is a popular treatment for patients experiencing chronic respiratory conditions. Those with conditions such as emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis and pneumonia can require long-term oxygen therapy to maintain adequate oxygen levels in their blood. This can greatly improve the overall quality of life and extend the lifespan of these patients. Portable oxygen tanks and home delivery systems are also instrumental in allowing these patients to live a more active and fulfilling life in light of their respiratory limitations. 

Managing oxygen administration

While oxygen is undeniably a life-saving tool for the medical industry, its administration must be carefully managed. Oxygen can be toxic at high concentrations and prolonged use of high-flow oxygen can have detrimental effects, specifically in certain patient populations. Along with that, the risk of fire increases in the presence of high oxygen levels, leading to very specific safety protocols and equipment requirements in healthcare settings. 

Forge Forward with nexAir gases

At nexAir, we are deeply integrated in the needs and daily tasks of our customers in the healthcare industry. Our products and innovative solutions enable our customers to gain more efficiency, safety and peace of mind – improving and saving the lives in their communities. If you or your business are interested in getting started with your own supply of oxygen, please reach out to our team today. Together, we can continue to Forge Forward!