What should be closely monitored during the application of oxygen therapy?

Monitoring the patient's respiratory rate and oxygen saturation during the application of oxygen therapy is essential for assessing the effectiveness of treatment and ensuring patient safety. These parameters provide critical information about the patient's respiratory function and the adequacy of oxygenation.

The respiratory rate indicates how well the patient is breathing, and any significant changes could signal worsening respiratory distress or improvement. Similarly, oxygen saturation, typically measured with a pulse oximeter, reveals how well oxygen is being transported in the bloodstream. A target saturation level is often indicated for optimal therapeutic outcomes, usually between 92% and 96% for most patients, depending on their individual health conditions. Maintaining close observation of these parameters allows healthcare providers to adjust therapy as necessary, respond to complications, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.

Other aspects, such as the type of mask used, while important for effective delivery of oxygen, do not provide a direct measure of patient response to therapy. Likewise, monitoring the parent’s understanding may be vital in pediatric cases, but it does not directly assess the patient's physiological response. The total time of oxygen administration is less critical than the real-time assessment of the patient's respiratory status and oxygen levels. Therefore, focusing on respiratory rate and oxygen saturation is paramount in the context of oxygen therapy.