How does altitude affect oxygen therapy?

Altitude affects oxygen therapy significantly, primarily due to changes in atmospheric pressure and the availability of oxygen as one ascends to higher elevations. At high altitudes, atmospheric pressure decreases, which in turn reduces the partial pressure of oxygen in the air. This means that, even though the percentage of oxygen in the atmosphere remains constant (approximately 21%), the amount of available oxygen that can be absorbed by the lungs drops.

As a result, patients requiring supplemental oxygen may need higher flow rates to achieve adequate oxygenation. This is crucial in clinical settings, especially for patients who have respiratory issues or other conditions that impair their ability to oxygenate blood effectively. In essence, the decrease in oxygen availability at altitude necessitates adjustments in oxygen therapy to ensure that patients receive enough oxygen to meet their physiological needs.