When should you provide additional oxygen during ACLS?

Providing additional oxygen during Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is critical when a patient is hypoxic or shows signs of respiratory distress. Hypoxia refers to inadequate oxygen supply in the body, which can lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly. In scenarios where a patient exhibits low oxygen saturation levels, typically indicated by measuring SpO2, or demonstrates difficulty breathing, administering supplemental oxygen becomes essential to increase their oxygen availability and supports vital organ function.

In the context of ACLS, it's vital to address hypoxia as it can worsen the patient's condition, particularly during cardiac events. Adequate oxygenation is key to ensuring that the heart and brain receive enough oxygen to function effectively, especially during resuscitation efforts. Therefore, providing oxygen in such situations is a critical intervention to help stabilize the patient and improve the chances of a successful outcome.