Definition
Administering oxygen using an oxygen tent is a specialized method primarily used for infants and young children who require a controlled environment with humidified oxygen, especially in cases of pneumonia, bronchiolitis, or croup.
An oxygen tent consists of a canopy over the baby’s bed that may cover the baby fully or partially and is connected to a supply of oxygen. The canopies are transparent and enable the nurse to observe the sick baby.
Purpose of Administering Oxygen Using Oxygen Tent
- Deliver humidified oxygen in a controlled environment
- Maintain consistent oxygen concentration (30–50%)
- Provide temperature regulation and freedom of movement
- Reduce respiratory distress in pediatric patients
Advantages
- Provides an environment for the patient with controlled oxygen concentration, temperature regulation, and humidity control.
- It allows freedom of movement in bed.
Disadvantages
- It creates a feeling of isolation.
- It requires high level of oxygen (10-12 liters per minute).
- Loss of desired concentration occurs each time the tent is opened to provide care for the infant.
- There is an increased chance of hazards due to fire.
- It requires much time and effort to clean and maintain a tent
Articles
Oxygen tent and oxygen source, humidifier
Procedure for administering Oxygen Using Oxygen Tent
| Nursing Actions | Rationale |
| Before procedure Explain and reassure the parents and child Select the smallest tent and canopy that will achieve the desired concentration of oxygen and maintain patient comfort. During procedure 1. Tuck the edges of the tent under the mattress securely. This is especially important if the child is restless and can dislodge the tent by pulling the covers loose. 2.Pad the metal frame that supports the canopy 3.Flush the test with oxygen (increase the flow rate) after it has been opened for a period, to increase the concentration of the gas, then reset the flow meter to the original level. 4.Analyze and record the tent atmosphere every 1-2 hours. Concentrations of 30-50% can be achieved in well maintained tents. 5. Maintain a tight-fitting canopy whenever possible, provide nursing care through the sleeves or pockets of the tent. 6.Check child’s temperature routinely. 7.” No smoking “sign should be pasted in the unit After procedure 1. Record the flow rate of oxygen, alteration in flow rate, and child’s reaction. | Helps in obtaining cooperation. Increases the efficiency of the unit. Dislodgement of tent leads to oxygen leakage. Protects the child from injury. Oxygen is circulated in the tent to adjust the concentration. Concentration varies with the efficiency of the tent, the rate flow of oxygen and the frequency with which tent is opened to the outside environment. Prevents oxygen leakage and disruption of the tent atmosphere. Moisture accumulation may result in hypothermia. Oxygen helps in combustion. Serves as a communication between staff members. |
Note
1. Oxygen can be administered to babies using oxygen tent (oxyhood).
2. Oxygen hood is a plastic device, which is kept over the head of the infant. It permits easy access to the child without loss of oxygen. It helps in efficient delivery of oxygen.
3. While placing hood over the head of the child, the edges of the hood should not rub against the child’s chin, neck, and shoulders
Special Considerations
- Mist is prescribed with oxygen therapy to liquefy secretions.
- Humidified air may condense into water droplets on the inside walls of the tent; it is important to examine the child’s clothing and bedding and change them as necessary to prevent chilling
- Electrical equipment used within or near the tent should be grounded properly.
- It is preferable to monitor SpO2 of patient continuously.
- Avoid the use of volatile, inflammable materials such as oil, grease, alcohol, ether, and acetone near the tent.
- Nurse should be knowledgeable about the location and technique for using a fire extinguisher.
- For the baby in oxygen tent, toys selected should be such that they retard absorption, are washable, and will not produce static electricity, eg, woolen and stuffed toys. This ensures baby’s safety.
REFERENCES
- Annamma Jacob, Rekha, Jhadav Sonali Tarachand: Clinical Nursing Procedures: The Art of Nursing Practice, 5th Edition, March 2023, Jaypee Publishers, ISBN-13: 978-9356961845 ISBN-10: 9356961840
- Omayalachi CON, Manual of Nursing Procedures and Practice, Vol 1, 3 Edition 2023, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN: 978-9393553294
- Sandra Nettina, Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 11th Edition, January 2019, Published by Wolters Kluwers, ISBN-13:978-9388313285
- Adrianne Dill Linton, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 8th Edition, 2023, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323826716
- Donna Ignatavicius, Medical-Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Clinical Judgment and Collaborative Care, 11th Edition ,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323878265
- Lewis’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, 12th Edition,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323789615
- AACN Essentials of Critical Care Nursing, 5th Ed. Sarah. Delgado, 2023, Published by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses ISBN: 978-1264269884
- Ernstmeyer K, Christman E, editors. Nursing Fundamentals [Internet]. 2nd edition. Eau Claire (WI): Chippewa Valley Technical College; 2024. PART IV, NURSING PROCESS. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK610818/
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