Normoxemia (10Ns)

This page is part of the 10N-Matrix for a high quality conduct of pediatric anesthesia care.

Definition

Normal oxygen tension in the blood. Adequate oxygen supply permits aerobic metabolism.

Hypoxemia is commonly encountered during pediatric anesthesia. Prolonged hypoxemia may lead to adverse short and long-term outcomes.

Hyperoxemia is iatrogenic and may result in the production of reactive oxygen species affecting normal organ function.

Acute and chronic changes in oxygen tensions results in physiologically and clinically relevant tissue perfusion and organ dysfunction.

Hypoxemia may result in severe tissue hypoxia, bradycardia, cerebral and other organ hypoperfusion.

Prolonged hyperoxemia may affect organ development and function such as retinopathy of prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

aim to achieve adequate oxygen tensions
acute hypoxia is commonly a result of difficulties and critical incidences during airway and ventilation management

regular teaching and training
equipment and drugs
suitable staffing
assessment und preparation of patient
local algorithms for the (un)expected / risky airway difficulties should be established.
establish regulation for delivery of adequate FiO₂and ventilation management

Habre W, Peták F. Perioperative use of oxygen: variabilities across age. Br J Anaesth. 2014 Dec;113 Suppl 2:ii26-36.