When administering oxygen, which statement best reflects proper practice?

When administering oxygen, which statement best reflects proper practice?

• A. as needed but not more than prescribed
• B. never
• C. only with meals
• D. not more

Answer: (D)

Oxygen therapy is a medicine, so it must be given exactly as prescribed. The best practice is to deliver not more than what the order specifies, staying within that limit for the entire treatment. This means confirming the prescribed flow and duration, setting the device accordingly, and monitoring the patient’s oxygen saturation to stay within the target range without exceeding it. Giving more than prescribed can cause oxygen toxicity and other adverse effects, and in some patients it can even blunt their natural drive to breathe. The other options miss the essential point that the amount must match the clinician’s prescription and be guided by ongoing monitoring. Always adhere to the prescribed limits and adjust only as directed after reassessment.

Oxygen therapy is a medicine, so it must be given exactly as prescribed. The best practice is to deliver not more than what the order specifies, staying within that limit for the entire treatment. This means confirming the prescribed flow and duration, setting the device accordingly, and monitoring the patient’s oxygen saturation to stay within the target range without exceeding it. Giving more than prescribed can cause oxygen toxicity and other adverse effects, and in some patients it can even blunt their natural drive to breathe. The other options miss the essential point that the amount must match the clinician’s prescription and be guided by ongoing monitoring. Always adhere to the prescribed limits and adjust only as directed after reassessment.