Hyperbaric Facility Upgrading Benefits Patients And Saves Money

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.

This is important for a number of reasons. Blood vessels form and grow more rapidly, there is less deterioration of damaged tissue, stubborn wounds common in diabetics begin to heal, and the toxicity of certain poisons is reduced. Increasing the amount of oxygen within all body tissues decreases the chances of developing an obstruction due to gas bubbles, and speeds the recovery process. Treatments can be as few as two, or may be necessary daily.

Common injuries and illnesses that show improvement under this regimen not only encompass decompression-related problems, but today include controlling infections in diabetic wounds, encouraging more rapid recovery of crushing injuries, fighting threatening cases of gangrene, and combating the effects of radiation used to treat cancer victims. People recovering from serious burns accept grafts more readily, and carbon monoxide poisoning cases detoxify rapidly.

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.

Both staff and patients will appreciate the benefits of upgrading to the latest types of equipment. An updated facility not only provides the latest care, but can also be an important factor for administrators responsible for controlling the financial bottom line. Consultants can detail the relationship between investing in improvements and the resulting cost advantages. Ideally, installation presents few interruptions in scheduled use.




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