What is the primary objective of delivering high-concentration oxygen?

Delivering high-concentration oxygen primarily aims to rapidly correct acute hypoxemia, which is a life-threatening condition characterized by significantly low levels of oxygen in the blood. This can occur in various medical situations, such as respiratory distress, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, pneumonia, or shock. The immediate provision of high-flow, high-concentration oxygen helps to restore adequate oxygen levels in the bloodstream, enhancing tissue oxygenation and preventing potential organ damage due to hypoxia.

While providing comfort, preventing anxiety, and lowering the risk of lung infections may be beneficial outcomes of oxygen therapy, they are not the primary goals when addressing acute hypoxemia. The urgent need to improve oxygen saturation takes precedence, as untreated hypoxemia can lead to serious complications, including respiratory failure or even death. Therefore, rapid correction of hypoxemia is crucial, making the primary objective of delivering high-concentration oxygen focused on this critical need.