Clinical Skills Guide
Oxygen Therapy for Nurses
Practical oxygen administration guide covering device choices, target SpO2 ranges, flow settings, and bedside reassessment points for nursing exams and clinical shifts.
Updated: May 6, 2026
Reading time: 7 minutes
Nursing school + NCLEX
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Target oxygen saturation and first actions
In stable adults, many protocols target SpO2 94-98%. For patients at risk of hypercapnic respiratory failure, common targets are 88-92% with closer reassessment. Always align targets with provider orders and local policy.
- Assess work of breathing, mental status, and pulse oximetry trend, not one reading alone.
- Start with the lowest device/flow that reaches target saturation and improves distress.
- Reassess in minutes, document response, and escalate quickly if deterioration continues.
Common oxygen delivery devices
| Device | Typical Flow | Approx FiO2 | Nursing notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nasal cannula | 1-6 L/min | 24-44% | Comfortable for stable patients; humidification may be needed at higher flows. |
| Simple face mask | 5-10 L/min | 35-60% | Keep flow at least 5 L/min to reduce CO2 rebreathing. |
| Non-rebreather mask | 10-15 L/min | 60-90%+ | Use for severe hypoxemia while preparing definitive treatment/escalation. |
| Venturi mask | Varies by adapter | Precise FiO2 | Helpful when exact FiO2 control is needed, including COPD patients. |
Safety checks every nurse should run
- Confirm tubing, wall source, and ordered flow are correct and functioning.
- Check skin integrity at ears, cheeks, and nares to prevent pressure injury.
- Track trends: respiratory rate, accessory muscle use, SpO2, and mental status.
- Escalate early when oxygen needs rise quickly or gas exchange worsens.
Related guide: ABG Interpretation Made Simple for Nurses
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