preoxygenation
Pronunciation: PREE-ox-ih-jen-AY-shun
Administration of high-concentration oxygen before anesthetic induction to extend safe apnea time.
Full Definition
Preoxygenation is the process of administering high-concentration oxygen (typically 100%) to patients before induction of general anesthesia to maximize oxygen reserves and extend the safe duration of apnea. In pediatric patients, this is particularly critical due to their higher metabolic rate and lower functional residual capacity, which leads to faster desaturation during airway manipulation. Effective preoxygenation can extend safe apnea time from 1-2 minutes to 8-10 minutes in healthy adults, though this benefit is less pronounced in children.
Usage
Usage note: Document end-tidal oxygen levels to confirm adequate preoxygenation
In Context
- "Adequate preoxygenation was achieved with end-tidal oxygen concentration of 85% before induction." — Anesthesia record
- "The anxious child required gentle preoxygenation with flavored oxygen via mask." — Pediatric induction note