What is the primary purpose of supplemental oxygen during patient care?

The primary purpose of supplemental oxygen during patient care is to provide adequate oxygen to the tissues. When a patient's oxygen levels are low, whether due to respiratory illness, trauma, or other medical conditions, administering supplemental oxygen helps ensure that the body's vital organs and tissues receive the oxygen they need to function properly.

Every cell in the body requires oxygen for aerobic metabolism, which is crucial for producing energy. If tissues are deprived of oxygen, it can lead to cellular injury, organ dysfunction, or even failure. Supplemental oxygen therapy addresses this critical need by increasing the amount of available oxygen in the bloodstream, allowing for better oxygenation at the cellular level.

While decreasing the workload of breathing, relaxing bronchial smooth muscles, and managing carbon dioxide levels are important aspects of respiratory care, they are secondary to the primary goal of ensuring adequate tissue oxygenation. Providing supplemental oxygen directly targets the issue of hypoxia and supports overall patient well-being.