Who is qualified to maintain oxygen therapy?

Who is qualified to maintain oxygen therapy?

• A. Respiratory Therapist
• B. Nurse
• C. Doctor
• D. Respiratory Therapist or Nurse

Answer: (D)

Maintaining oxygen therapy requires understanding how delivery devices work, how to monitor oxygenation, and safety considerations. Respiratory therapists specialize in airway and gas exchange management, so they are skilled at assigning the right flow rate or FiO2, titrating to target SpO2, and troubleshooting equipment. Nurses also play a key role in ongoing monitoring and management, checking readings, ensuring the equipment is functioning properly, adjusting oxygen per orders or protocol, and addressing any changes in the patient’s condition. Doctors prescribe and may modify the therapy, but day-to-day maintenance is typically performed by either a respiratory therapist or a nurse depending on the setting. Since both professionals have the training to manage oxygen delivery and respond to changes, the correct conclusion is that either a respiratory therapist or a nurse is qualified to maintain oxygen therapy. Remember to keep safety in mind—watch for fire hazards around oxygen, ensure proper humidification when required, and secure all equipment.

Maintaining oxygen therapy requires understanding how delivery devices work, how to monitor oxygenation, and safety considerations. Respiratory therapists specialize in airway and gas exchange management, so they are skilled at assigning the right flow rate or FiO2, titrating to target SpO2, and troubleshooting equipment. Nurses also play a key role in ongoing monitoring and management, checking readings, ensuring the equipment is functioning properly, adjusting oxygen per orders or protocol, and addressing any changes in the patient’s condition. Doctors prescribe and may modify the therapy, but day-to-day maintenance is typically performed by either a respiratory therapist or a nurse depending on the setting. Since both professionals have the training to manage oxygen delivery and respond to changes, the correct conclusion is that either a respiratory therapist or a nurse is qualified to maintain oxygen therapy. Remember to keep safety in mind—watch for fire hazards around oxygen, ensure proper humidification when required, and secure all equipment.