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Statement On Oxygen Bars
The Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists strongly rejects both the unregulated use of oxygen in 'oxygen bars' and use by those who do not require oxygen to improve their physiological status.
The Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists' position is:
As health professionals, we cannot ethically or morally support providing oxygen therapy to those who do not require it.
Oxygen is predominantly administered to individuals who have lower than normal levels of oxygen. In this instance, it is therapeutically used to decrease the workload of the heart and lungs. Oxygen is carried throughout the body within the bloodstream. It is primarily carried by haemoglobin. Haemoglobin, in a healthy body, can be 'bound with oxygen' at 100% capacity. Breathing additional oxygen, therefore will not provide more oxygen to normal healthy individuals.
An additional concern rises when oxygen is passed through colorant or flavouring devices. These have the potential to act as a serious lung irritant in asthmatic and allergic individuals.
Respiratory therapists are the primary administrators of oxygen in a healthcare setting. Oxygen is typically administered by prescription or medically approved protocols.
The Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists strongly advocates stringent regulations of this industry.
Approved by:
Board of Directors
Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists
June, 1998
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