Uses and benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy: A respiratory therapist's approach

Abstract

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has emerged as a novel therapeutic approach for both acute and chronic conditions, as it increases tissue oxygenation by raising the pressure inside the chamber. A qualitative study was conducted, consisting primarily of a literature review of various databases, which yielded 43 articles for subsequent analysis. Information was also collected using a questionnaire consisting of 14 questions, 2 open-ended and 12 closed-ended, which was completed by 18 professionals with expertise in the use of hyperbaric chambers.

The results show that hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been used in various ways in pathologies such as decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism, and carbon monoxide poisoning, among others, either as the main treatment or as a complement. There are clinical, preventive, and quality-of-life-related uses for patients. Respiratory therapists perform various tasks in the use of this therapy, such as pulmonary function testing, patient monitoring, clinical assessment, and education. Although the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy is part of the professional profile of respiratory therapists, there is a lack of important information about the main role it can play. Despite the complementary tests that therapists could perform, there is insufficient evidence to support this.