Written by: Amanda Bonaccorso RRT, CES-A, MBA
When it comes to working in the world of pediatric healthcare, every detail matters, especially when determining their fundamental need for oxygen. Oxygen liter flow, often abbreviated as LPM (liters per minute), plays a pivotal role in the care and treatment of pediatric patients. From premature infants to adolescents, maintaining optimal oxygenation levels is crucial for their well-being and recovery. As healthcare providers, it is key that we understand what type of oxygen delivery device we are using for the pediatric population and that these oxygen delivery devices are being tailored and used appropriately in managing their oxygen levels.
Let’s dive into why oxygen liter flow is of crucial importance in pediatric care.
Oxygenation is Essential for Life:
Oxygen is vital for cellular respiration, energy production, and overall organ function. In pediatric patients, their bodies are still developing, so the need for sufficient oxygen is even more critical. Insufficient oxygen levels can lead to hypoxemia, a condition where the blood doesn’t have enough oxygen to meet the body’s needs, potentially resulting in tissue damage, organ dysfunction, and even death.
Tailored Care for Different Ages and Conditions:
We have to remember that when we are looking at pediatric patients, we have to encompass a wide range of ages, sizes, and medical conditions. The appropriate oxygen liter flow must be carefully determined based on factors such as age, weight, respiratory rate, and the underlying condition. Premature infants, for example, may require extremely low flow rates via nasal cannula to avoid oxygen toxicity, while children with respiratory illnesses like asthma may need higher flow rates on different oxygen delivery device, such as a High-Flow Nasal Cannula to maintain adequate oxygenation during exacerbations. We can also look at guidelines from the American Heart Association, that recommend maximum nasal cannula flow rates not to exceed 4 LPM in the pediatric population. This is because flow rates over 4 LPM may not provide sufficient oxygenation, especially for those pediatric patients with more severe respiratory distress or higher oxygen requirements.
Monitoring and Adjusting Oxygen Levels:
Regular monitoring of oxygen saturation levels (SpO2) using pulse oximetry is essential in pediatric patients. Oxygen liter flow must be adjusted accordingly to maintain SpO2 within the target range recommended by medical guidelines. This constant assessment and adjustment ensure that pediatric patients receive the right amount of oxygen needed for their specific condition, preventing both hypoxemia and hyperoxemia (excess oxygen in the blood), which can also have adverse effects, such as oxygen toxicity. Transitioning to alternative oxygen delivery devices or proper weaning of oxygen, allows for the delivery of the right oxygen concentrations without exceeding unsafe levels of oxygen exposure, thereby reducing the risk of oxygen toxicity.
Collaborative Care Approach:
Optimizing oxygen liter flow in pediatric patients requires a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, respiratory therapists, nurses, and caregivers. Regular communication and education are essential to ensure that everyone involved understands the importance of oxygenation and how to monitor and adjust liter flow rates as needed.
In Summary
It is important that health care professionals stay informed and have an understanding of oxygenation and pediatrics. It can be more complex due to all the factors that must be considered when deciding how best to manage the patient. We know oxygen liter flow is a critical aspect of pediatric care, ensuring that young patients receive the oxygen they need to thrive and recover. From strict monitoring to tailored adjustments, every step taken to optimize oxygenation can make a significant difference in the health outcomes of pediatric patients. By recognizing the importance of oxygen liter flow and implementing evidence-based practices, healthcare teams can provide the best possible care for their young patients, safeguarding their well-being and future health.
To learn more about this and other topics regarding care for the acutely ill pediatric patient, we encourage you to explore the American Heart Association Pediatric Advanced Life Support Certification Course. Click here for more information about PALS Certification from CSRE. Here’s to your success!
Amanda Bonaccorso is an AHA Certified Instructor with Community Safety & Response Educators (CSRE). She teaches BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification courses.
High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in children: a clinical review (Ji-Won Kwon, MD, PhD.);
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7027347
American Heart Association Journal, “Circulation”; Vol. 142, No. 16_suppl_2 Part 4: Pediatric Basic and Advanced Life Support: 2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
