Title: Discuss the role of the nurse aide and oxygen use in a health care facility.
Course: Nurse Aide (14051) > Section: Unit IV: Safety Measures

Discussion should include

- identifying when oxygen use is necessary
  - when a resident has difficulty breathing
  - when it is prescribed by a health care provider
- explaining the role of the nurse aid in oxygen use
  - observing only; adjustments to oxygen flow can only be performed by RN or LPN
  - checking the resident’s nose and behind their ears for signs of irritation
  - reporting signs of irritation, changes in the resident’s condition, and problems with equipment immediately to the appropriate licensed nurse
- listing safety precautions to be taken related to oxygen use
  - prohibiting smoking around oxygen equipment
  - removing fire hazards
    - electrical equipment (e.g., razors, hair dryers, radios)
    - flammable liquids (e.g., nail polish remover, alcohol)
    - candles, lighters, or matches
    - synthetic fibers, nylon, and wool, which create static electricity
  - learning how to turn off oxygen in case of fire.