Approach to Hypoxia

An easy to remember approach to a patient with hypoxia. Intended to be a quick guide resource for trainees on call when encountering a hypoxic patient.

Approach to Hypoxia Definition: insufficient oxygen to maintain tissue homeostasis. Diagnosis: SpO2 less than 90-92% or PaO2 less than 60 mmHg. Causes of Hypoxia: 1. Atmospheric – lower partial pressure of oxygen in the air. 2. Respiratory – impaired oxygen diffusion within the alveoli or hypoventilation. 3. Cardiogenic - inability of cardiovascular system to effectively maintain oxygen delivery. 4. Oxygen transport – impaired carrying capacity of hemoglobin to effectively deliver oxygen to the tissues. 5. Tissue utilization – inability of tissues to utilize the oxygen delivered.

Graphics created by Dr. Candice Griffin.

Nasal prongs – limit 6L/min, non-humidified; Face mask or Venturi-mask – limit 12L/min, humidified; Nonrebreather – 100% FiO2, 15L/min, humidified; High flow nasal cannula – up to 100% FiO2 and 60L/min, humidified.

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