Understanding the effects of oxygen administration in haemorrhagic shock

Abstract

Aims and objectives: the aim of this article is to provide a review of the literature regarding oxygen administration and the use of oxygen in patients experiencing haemorrhagic shock (HS).

Results: oxygen is administered to patients to assist them in maintaining oxygenation. The administration of oxygen is complex and varies significantly among patients. In order to optimize patient care, clinicians need to be aware of the potential effects, both beneficial and harmful, that oxygen can have on the body.

Inclusion and exclusion criteria: literature inclusion criteria for this article was any article (1995 to present) pertaining to oxygen administration and HS. Also included were articles related to tissue injury caused by an overabundance of free radicals with the administration of oxygen. Articles related to oxygen and wound healing, pollution, aerospace, food and industrial uses were excluded.

Conclusions: this review of the literature provides an overview of the use of oxygen in clinical practice and HS. The harmful effects of oxygen are highlighted to alert the clinician to this potential when there is an overabundance of oxygen.

Relevance to clinical practice: oxygen is one of the most common drugs used in the medical community; however, the effects of oxygen on the body are not well understood. The use of oxygen if not prescribed correctly can cause cellular damage and death. Clinicians need to be more aware of the effects of oxygen and the damage it may cause if not administered properly.