What is the primary purpose of oxygen therapy?

The primary purpose of oxygen therapy is to deliver oxygen to a patient when oxygenation is compromised. This is essential in various medical situations where a patient's oxygen levels are insufficient, potentially leading to hypoxemia, which can cause numerous complications and worsen overall health. Oxygen therapy aims to restore optimal oxygen levels in the blood to ensure that tissues and organs receive the oxygen they require for proper function.

While decreasing the work of breathing, relieving symptoms of respiratory infections, and improving lung capacity are associated benefits of oxygen therapy, they are not the main objectives. For instance, while improving respiratory efficiency and alleviating symptoms may occur as a result of restoring adequate oxygen levels, the core aim remains focused on addressing the immediate need for proper oxygenation in the patient. Thus, ensuring sufficient oxygen delivery is fundamental in critical care and management of chronic respiratory conditions, making it the central reason for utilizing oxygen therapy.