What is the main purpose of oxygen therapy?

The main purpose of oxygen therapy is to increase the oxygen saturation of the patient’s blood. Oxygen therapy is primarily used for patients with respiratory conditions or situations where the body is unable to obtain sufficient oxygen. By providing supplemental oxygen, therapy aims to raise the levels of oxygen in the bloodstream, ensuring that tissues and organs receive the oxygen they need for proper function.

Increasing blood oxygen saturation is crucial in managing various medical conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Proper oxygen saturation levels are essential for maintaining cellular metabolism and preventing hypoxia, which can lead to significant complications if left unmanaged.

Other choices, while related to respiratory therapy, do not capture the primary goal of oxygen delivery. For instance, reducing carbon dioxide levels is more associated with ventilatory support or mechanical ventilation rather than direct oxygen therapy. Relieving airway obstruction and enhancing lung capacity are also important in respiratory care but are not the main focus of oxygen therapy itself. The fundamental aim remains the effective increase of oxygen saturation in the bloodstream, ensuring adequate oxygenation for all bodily functions.