ABSTRACT
Background and purpose: To explore the deleterious effects of hyperoxia due to liberal oxygen use and clarify the significance of overuse and effects on morbidity and mortality in adult hospitalized patients. This literature review is also intended to bring awareness to nurse practitioners regarding the iatrogenic harm caused by excessive oxygenation and promote individualized patient care.
Methods: A review of existing literature was conducted using PubMed and CINAHL databases. The keywords "hyperoxia", "hyperoxemia", "oxygen toxicity," and "excessive oxygenation" were used to yield articles for consideration.
Results: Of the six studies compared for this review, five identified positive correlations between hyperoxia and adverse outcomes. The sixth study found no significant differences in morbidity or mortality with the use of liberal oxygenation versus a more conventional approach.
Conclusions: Overwhelming evidence suggests that states of hyperoxemia lead to increased mortality and morbidity. However, there is considerable variability on the threshold at which hyperoxia occurs. Further research is required to define levels of hyperoxia to better protect patients from iatrogenic harm.
Implications for practice: Nurse practitioners in all specialties can increase awareness of the dangers of excessive oxygenation and effect a change in practice through education.