Medical Gases

Section 8 - MEDICATION GUIDELINES

8.16 MEDICAL GASES

Oxygen

DESCRIPTION

• An odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that is essential for life. It is one of the most important emergency medications.

INDICATIONS

• Hypoxia or anticipated hypoxia, Cardiac Arrest, chest pain, dyspnea, shock or anticipated shock.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• COPD: use caution with high-flow Oxygen however, if patient is in distress, do not withhold.

PRECAUTIONS

• COPD and prolonged administration of high concentrations in the newborn.

DOSAGE

• Refer to PRACTICE PARAMETERS for specific dosages.