11.6 Checklist for Oxygen Therapy
Open Resources for Nursing (Open RN)
Use the checklist below to review the steps for “Managing Oxygen Therapy.”
Steps
Disclaimer: Always review and follow agency policy regarding this specific skill.
- Verify provider order or protocol.
- Gather supplies: pulse oximeter, oxygen delivery device, and tubing.
- Perform safety steps:
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Check the room for transmission-based precautions.
- Introduce yourself, your role, the purpose of your visit, and an estimate of the time it will take.
- Confirm patient ID using two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
- Explain the process to the patient and ask if they have any questions.
- Be organized and systematic.
- Use appropriate listening and questioning skills.
- Listen and attend to patient cues.
- Ensure the patient’s privacy and dignity.
- Assess ABCs.
- Perform a focused respiratory assessment including airway, respiratory rate, pulse oximetry rate, and lung sounds.
- Employ safety measures for oxygen therapy.
- Connect flow meter to oxygen supply source.
- Apply adapter for tubing.
- Connect nasal cannula tubing to flow meter.
- Set oxygen flow at prescribed rate.
- When using a nasal cannula, place the prongs into the patient’s nares and fit the tubing around their ears. When using a mask, place the mask over the patient’s mouth and nose, secure a firm seal, and tighten the straps around the head. If using a non-rebreather mask, partially inflate the reservoir bag before applying the mask. Place the patient in an upright position as clinically appropriate.
- Evaluate patient’s response to oxygen therapy including airway, respiratory rate, pulse oximetry reading, and reported dyspnea.
- Institute additional interventions to improve oxygenation as needed.
- Adapt this procedure to reflect variations across the life span.
- Assist the patient to a comfortable position, ask if they have any questions, and thank them for their time.
- Ensure safety measures when leaving the room:
- CALL LIGHT: Within reach
- BED: Low and locked (in lowest position and brakes on)
- SIDE RAILS: Secured
- TABLE: Within reach
- ROOM: Risk-free for falls (scan room and clear any obstacles)
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document the assessment findings. Report any concerns according to agency policy.