Ensuring the safe use of emergency oxygen therapy in acutely ill patients.

Health professionals in all areas of care commonly look after patients who receive emergency oxygen therapy. They need to be aware that the excessive use of oxygen can be detrimental to some patients, in particular those with, or at higher risk of, hypercapnia. this article disc8usses the appropriate use of oxygen therapy in the emergency setting with the aim of improving patient safety and outcomes. it refers to current guidance on the indications for emergency oxygen therapy, its prescription, monitoring, titration and discontinuation.