Oxygen administration is an appropriate and helpful initial intervention by First Responders in certain conditions, while waiting for arrival of Emergency Medical Services personnel.

II. Indications

Use Oxygen in the following situations (while awaiting arrival of EMS):

Shock

Respiratory Emergencies

Neurologic Emergencies

Cardiac Emergencies

Major Trauma

Cardiopulmonary Arrest

III. Procedure

A. Make sure reducing valve (regulator) has been applied to tank.

B. Open main valve of oxygen tank fully.

C. Set oxygen flow rate to 15 liters per minute (LPM)

D. Select appropriate sized Non-Rebreathing Mask (Adult or Pediatric). Apply the Non-Rebreathing Mask (NRM) by attaching end of oxygen supply tubing provided to regulator nipple; place NRM on face of patient, ensuring snug fit over nose and mouth.

E. If patient cannot tolerate NRM, change to a Nasal Cannula (NC) after reducing the oxygen flow rate to 6 LPM. If this oxygen flow rate is not tolerated by patient, reduce to 4 LPM.

F. If adequately trained and assisting ventilations using a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) provide at least 15 LPM to BVM device and make sure the oxygen reservoir or tail is attached.

IV. Cautions

A. ALWAYS set NRM to 15 LPM. Inadequate oxygen flow rates applied to a NRM will result in DECREASED Oxygen concentration of inhaled air and INCREASED inhalation of carbon dioxide and result in harm to the patient.

B. If patient has history of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), such as emphysema, be cautious of high flow oxygen. It can paradoxically reduce the brain’s drive to breath. Monitor patient and be prepared to assist ventilations if patient respiratory drive decreases or stops. Do not withhold oxygen, however, if the patient needs it due to decompensation of his or her condition.