[Use of high-flow oxygen treatment in the emergency medical service: what are the dangers for users from the perspective of occupational and fire protection?].

INTRODUCTION

The administration of high concentrations of oxygen may harm patients or paramedics by increasing the probability of fire. The presented work investigated the effect of oxygen applied via high flow in different concentrations and flow rates on environmental oxygen concentrations in the patient compartment of an ambulance.

RESULTS

Environmental oxygen concentrations increased rapidly over time and oxygen is stored in blankets and clothes over a long period. Simulation in a fire laboratory showed that also in high oxygen concentration settings fire needs a flame or temperatures above 300 °C. Sparks alone were not able to start a fire.

CONCLUSION

Ventilation of patient compartment and clothes with ambient air are mandatory to reduce dangerous oxygen concentrations in transport of patients on high-flow oxygen treatment.