Fundamentals of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Nursing
• Hyperbaric Medicine
• Wound Healing

Background:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) is an established adjunctive treatment.
• HBO involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber.
• Orthopaedic conditions can benefit from HBO therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform orthopaedic nurses about hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing potential HBO patients.
• To provide essential knowledge for patient education and care.

Main Methods:

• Review of hyperbaric oxygen therapy principles.
• Identification of orthopaedic conditions treatable with HBO.
• Discussion of HBO side effects and patient education.

Main Results:

• HBO therapy increases oxygen availability for tissue repair.
• A range of orthopaedic diseases may respond to HBO.
• Understanding HBO is crucial for effective nursing practice.

Conclusions:

• Orthopaedic nurses require foundational knowledge of HBO.
• This knowledge enables identification and appropriate management of HBO patients.
• HBO therapy is a valuable tool in managing certain orthopaedic conditions.