What does 'FiO2' stand for in oxygen therapy?

In oxygen therapy, 'FiO2' refers to the Fraction of Inspired Oxygen, which is the concentration of oxygen in the air a patient inhales. This term is crucial for understanding oxygen therapy and its administration, as it helps quantify the amount of oxygen the patient receives compared to the total volume of air. Normal atmospheric air is composed of approximately 21% oxygen, which corresponds to an FiO2 of 0.21. In therapeutic settings, the FiO2 can be adjusted higher to meet the patient's individual needs based on factors such as their respiratory condition and oxygen saturation levels.

Knowing the FiO2 is essential for healthcare providers when evaluating a patient's respiratory status and guiding treatment decisions. It directly influences how effectively oxygen is delivered to the tissues, making it a critical component in managing patients requiring supplemental oxygen.