What are potential signs of under-treatment in oxygen therapy?

Restlessness and confusion can indicate under-treatment in oxygen therapy because these symptoms may arise when a patient is not receiving sufficient oxygen levels to meet their physiological needs. Inadequate oxygenation can lead to hypoxemia, where the body and brain do not receive enough oxygen, resulting in neurological symptoms such as confusion, anxiety, or restlessness. Monitoring for these signs is essential in a clinical setting, as they can help healthcare providers adjust oxygen therapy to ensure that the patient receives the required amount of oxygen to maintain proper organ function and cognitive clarity.

Increased oxygen saturation is a sign that therapy might be effective, while improved lung compliance typically suggests that the lungs are functioning better, and stable vital signs indicate that the patient's condition is stable. Therefore, these options do not demonstrate under-treatment.