Oxygen Assessment and Transtracheal Oxygen Program
Some forms of lung disease cause the oxygen level to drop below critical levels, resulting in high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension). Over time, if the oxygen level is not restored to a normal range, the heart may be irreversibly damaged.
To identify patients at risk for developing pulmonary hypertension and heart damage, we offer patients a simple, pain-free test, using an “oximeter”, that measures the oxygen level both at rest and during activity.
The Oxygen Assessment and Transtracheal Oxygen Program service provides:
- Functional assessment to determine the need for supplemental oxygen
- Titration of oxygen for rest and activity
- Assessment of need for airway management/secretion clearance measures
- Consultation with the referring physician
- Referral to appropriate home care providers for equipment and supplies, and other supportive care
Transtracheal oxygen program also provides:
- Preoperative patient assessment and teaching
- Postoperative consultation with a pulmonologist to transition to Scoop 1 catheter to provide oxygen
- Scoop 1 catheter management and training
- Instruction in cleaning protocol
- Transition to independent management
Patients Appropriate for Referral include:
- Individuals who have a lung disorder or those who have, or are at risk for, hypoxemia at rest and/or with activity
- Individuals who are currently receiving supplemental oxygen and who demonstrate inadequate oxygen saturation with delivery by nasal cannula
- Patients who require continuous supplemental oxygen, but desire a more discreet means of delivery
