Airway and oxygen therapy basics.
Airway first
Patency before other interventions when compromised.
Nasal cannula FiO₂
Approx low-flow oxygen delivery.
Non-rebreather
High FiO₂ reservoir mask; keep bag inflated.
Incentive spirometer
Prevents atelectasis; inspire slowly/deeply.
Pursed-lip breathing
Helps COPD patients exhale and reduce air trapping.
Tripod position
Leaning forward to ease breathing.
Wheezes
Often narrowed airways (e.g. asthma).
Crackles
Fluid/atelectasis-related sounds.
Stridor
Upper airway obstruction emergency sound.
Suction caution
Preoxygenate; limit time; monitor SpO₂.
Tracheostomy care
Sterile technique for inner cannula as protocol.
Peak flow
Asthma self-monitoring tool.
Pneumothorax signs
Sudden dyspnea, unilateral chest rise decrease.
ABG purpose
Assess acid-base and gas exchange.