Final answer:
Patients are eligible for Long-Term Oxygen Therapy (LTOT) if they fulfill one of the following criteria: Age over 60 years, Smoking history, PaO2 less than or equal to 55 mm Hg or an SaO2 less than or equal to 88% on room air, COPD diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Patients are eligible for Long-Term Oxygen Therapy (LTOT) if they fulfill one of the following criteria:
- Age over 60 years
- Smoking history
- PaO2 less than or equal to 55 mm Hg or an SaO2 less than or equal to 88% on room air
- COPD diagnosis
To determine eligibility for LTOT, a patient must meet at least one of these criteria. Age over 60 years is one factor, as older individuals are more prone to lung conditions. Smoking history indicates a potential risk factor, as tobacco smoking is a major cause of COPD. Low levels of oxygen in the blood, measured by PaO2 or SaO2, can also qualify a patient for LTOT. Lastly, a diagnosis of COPD is another criterion for eligibility.