Good idea to have O2 on hand, though it’s optional
September 1, 1999 2 minutes read
Good idea to have O2 on hand, though it’s optional
Question: I work in an occupational health office at a client company’s work site. We do not have oxygen available in this office, but I’ve heard suggestions that we should have oxygen available to assist with asthma attacks and similar emergencies. Would it be worthwhile?
What about the main occupational health clinic that is adjacent to the hospital? I don’t think we have oxygen available in that area either, but the hospital is right next door.
Answer: Yes, it is a good idea to always have oxygen available in any area in which you see occupational health patients. There are many situations in which patients will benefit from oxygen therapy, and there is no downside to having the oxygen around, says Pat Stamas, RN, COHN, president of Occupational Health and Safety Resources in Dover, NH. She usually works at a client’s on-site clinic and always has oxygen available.
"The Nurse Practice Act in New Hampshire advocates nurses doing everything possible in a life-threatening situation, so I want oxygen available for those cases in which the patient might benefit," she says. "We also have an automatic external defibrillator, for the same reason. When it comes to a life-threatening situation, we want to have as much equipment as possible if it might help."
And besides, Stamas says, there is no reason not to have oxygen available. You do not have to spend much money, take on much new equipment, or commit to any burdensome maintenance. A 1-liter cylinder will be sufficient in most situations, and Stamas pays about $80 for one. The cylinder takes up very little room and only needs to be inspected quarterly.
There is no strict requirement that oxygen be available in such a setting, Stamas says, but that does not mean it is not needed. In the typical occupational health clinic or work site, the oxygen will be used frequently. Patients experiencing chest pains or shortness of breath will benefit from oxygen therapy, as will those feeling faint or having difficulty breathing for myriad reasons. In addition to making the oxygen available in her clinic, Stamas has suggested that the client’s first responders also be trained in oxygen therapy.
She advises exercising caution when providing oxygen therapy to employees suffering an asthma attack or those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. Oxygen therapy has to be carefully regulated with those patients; you cannot just put them on oxygen and hope they feel better.
As for the main occupational health clinic next door to the hospital, Stamas says the same recommendations apply. Though oxygen and extensive care may be available right next door, you won’t want to send patients to the emergency department or for inpatient care when all they need is a brief bout of oxygen therapy.
"It’s definitely a good idea to have oxygen on hand at all times," she says. "If you don’t, you may find yourself sending employees to the hospital or calling for an ambulance more than you really need to."
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