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How Hyperbaric Facility Upgrading Benefits Both Patients And Staff

By Janine Hughes


In some situations it becomes important to breathe oxygen under pressure ranging from one and one-half to three times the amount considered normal. The process was used at first to prevent early deep-water divers from suffering from decompression sickness during rapid ascents, but today has become an important part of the treatment given to hospital patients with certain types of injuries. Hyperbaric facility upgrading improves the process for hospital staff and patients alike.

Patients enter and remains inside a type of chamber during compression. Normal air is composed of 21% oxygen, and there are somewhat limited benefits to simply breathing a pure mixture. The most medically significant results can be produced by providing a pure form of oxygen that is also under pressure, which measurably increases the amount of that gas present in the bloodstream.

In many cases the results are better formation of blood vessels, improved healing of stubborn wounds, greater control of infection, less deterioration of damaged tissues, and a reduction in the amount of toxicity of certain substances. By increasing oxygen delivery to all tissues there is less chance of obstruction caused by gas bubbles, and healing is more rapid. The number of treatments necessary varies from one or two, to multiple sessions.

The diseases and injuries that can benefit not only include decompression sickness, but today encompass infections of wounds sustained by diabetics, people who are crushed in accidents, those enduring life-threatening cases of gangrene, and patients with radiation damage from cancer treatments. Those suffering burns may benefit from quicker healing of skin grafts, and victims of carbon monoxide poisoning recover faster.

This type of facility is normally located within a hospital, and includes chambers ranging from individual sizes to those that can hold a dozen people. Monoplace facilities accommodate one person, are made of plastic, and are often shaped like tubes. An individual reclines inside while atop a table, and remains for two or more hours. Common side effects include ear-popping caused by air pressure changes.

The amount of pressure and the time it takes for treatment are dependent on a specific diagnosis, and patient history regarding oxygen response. Some individuals benefit most from a daily regimen, while others require far fewer. In general, this procedure is safe and reliable. Patients with upper respiratory infections or other counter-indications may experience treatment delays.

Operational reviews and inspections normally take place regularly. They are often completed by medical consultants. Standard operations are analyzed, and associated staff members are asked about operational or procedural issues that have occurred. Logs detailing maintenance and daily use help define which type of improvements may be needed, or whether outdated equipment should be replaced.

Upgrading to state-of-the-art equipment benefits both patients and staff. Not only does an improved facility provide better care, but is important for hospital administrators controlling the financial bottom line. Consultants can provide solid statistics that reveal cost savings compared to the amount needed to invest in improvements. Installation of improved equipment is coordinated to prevent any interruption in patient scheduling.




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