Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Basics

Description

  • Administration of 100% oxygen at >1 atm (typically 2–3 atm)
  • Mechanisms of action:
    • Increases oxygen availability at the cellular level:
      • Breathing 100% oxygen at 3 atm supplies enough dissolved oxygen to support life without hemoglobin
    • Compresses formed gas bubbles (in cases of air embolism or decompression sickness)
  • 2 types of hyperbaric oxygen chambers:
    • Monoplace:
      • Accommodates 1 supine patient
      • Health care staff outside the chamber for monitoring
    • Multiplace:
      • Holds multiple patients
      • Holds health care staff who “dive” with the patients

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