|  | Conditions Treatments | Respiratory Disorders

How to Increase Oxygen Saturation

Many patients require supplemental oxygen therapy to maintain acceptable levels of oxygen saturation in the blood. When the blood level of oxygen, as measured by a pulse oximeter, begins to drop to an unacceptable level, it is time to take action. Using the correct tools and techniques, it may be possible to increase this saturation level and help the patient breathe easier.

Things You'll Need

  • Supplemental oxygen
  • Nasal cannula
  • Oxygen mask selection
  • Home nebulizer with medication
  • Home CPAP device
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wake the patient and place him in a sitting position optimal for breathing. If you cannot arouse him or sit him up, you may prop him up on pillows. Instruct the patient in pursed-lip breathing. With each breath, the patient should gently exhale out with her lips pursed as if blowing a kiss.

    • 2

      Place the patient on supplemental oxygen. Consider turning up the rate of flow on the oxygen device to a level higher than normal. Nasal cannulas can physically be turned up as high as 6 L/min. if tolerated by the patient, states R.N. Mary Elizabeth Martellithe in "Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health."

    • 3

      If the patient is on home nebulizer therapy or has a “rescue inhaler,” then consider giving her a treatment dose now. Deliver the nebulizer with the patient still on oxygen, if possible. A nasal cannula may be worn under a nebulizer mask to help maintain oxygenation.

    • 4

      Upgrade to an alternate form of oxygen delivery, such as, in increasing order, a cannula, a simple mask or a nonrebreather mask. Masks are generally better tolerated than are nasal cannulas for high-flow oxygen.

    • 5

      Place the patient on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Many individuals have a CPAP device in the home for the treatment of sleep apnea. It is possible that a patient may experience higher oxygen saturation while on CPAP. Remember to add oxygen to the CPAP system. This type of oxygenation requires preparation beforehand and may be better left to home health professionals.

Respiratory Disorders - Related Articles