Question

A patient is being admitted with severe respiratory distress and will require an Fio2 greater than 80%. Prior to possible intubation and mechanical ventilation, the nurse anticipates using which oxygen delivery equipment?

Answer 1

In a situation where a patient requires an FiO2 greater than 80%, the nurse anticipates using a non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) device, such as a high-flow nasal cannula or a bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine, to provide the necessary oxygen support before potential intubation and mechanical ventilation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is experiencing severe respiratory distress and needs an FiO2 greater than 80%, it indicates a critical need for oxygen support. Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) becomes a crucial intervention in such cases. High-flow nasal cannula delivers a high flow of heated and humidified oxygen, allowing for precise FiO2 control. Bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) delivers pressurized air at different levels during inhalation and exhalation, assisting the patient's respiratory effort.

These non-invasive methods are employed as a proactive measure before considering invasive interventions like intubation and mechanical ventilation. They provide increased oxygenation while minimizing the need for intubation. The choice between high-flow nasal cannula and BiPAP depends on the patient's condition and response to the therapy. This approach aligns with the goal of optimizing oxygenation while avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures. The nurse's anticipation and knowledge of appropriate oxygen delivery equipment are crucial in providing timely and effective care for patients in severe respiratory distress.