What is the primary purpose of oxygen therapy in respiratory distress patients?

The primary purpose of oxygen therapy in patients experiencing respiratory distress is to increase the amount of oxygen available to the tissues. In conditions where the respiratory system is compromised, the body may struggle to obtain adequate oxygenation, leading to tissue hypoxia. Administering supplemental oxygen directly addresses this issue by enhancing the oxygen saturation in the blood, which subsequently improves oxygen delivery to vital organs and tissues.

This therapeutic approach is crucial in various clinical scenarios, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where patients may not be able to maintain sufficient oxygen levels on their own. By ensuring that the body's cells receive the oxygen they need for metabolism and function, oxygen therapy plays a vital role in stabilizing patients and mitigating the consequences of hypoxia.