This process is called The Hypoxic Drive Theory.
It has not been proved, and is no longer believed by all medical professionals.
Unfortunately, people are afraid of their oxygen, even though it is not possible to "overdose" on the amounts of oxygen that are available with home use or portable oxygen.
The problem with withholding oxygen, in fear of killing the patient's drive to breathe, is that the patient can suffer more damage, or die, from insufficient oxygen.
Keep in mind that modern hospital equipment has come a long way since the old days when this theory was developed. Ventilation or non-invasive ventilation such as the BiPaP will prevent the build-up of carbon dioxide.
I am not a professional. I suggest reading online about both points of view about The Hypoxic Drive Theory.
It's really quite interesting, and I know respiratory therapists who would rather come to blows than agree!
Barb Knowles
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This process is called The Hypoxic Drive Theory.
It has not been proved, and is no longer believed by all medical professionals.
Unfortunately, people are afraid of their oxygen, even though it is not possible to "overdose" on the amounts of oxygen that are available with home use or portable oxygen.
The problem with withholding oxygen, in fear of killing the patient's drive to breathe, is that the patient can suffer more damage, or die, from insufficient oxygen.
Keep in mind that modern hospital equipment has come a long way since the old days when this theory was developed. Ventilation or non-invasive ventilation such as the BiPaP will prevent the build-up of carbon dioxide.
I am not a professional. I suggest reading online about both points of view about The Hypoxic Drive Theory.
March 31, 2012 - 8:47amIt's really quite interesting, and I know respiratory therapists who would rather come to blows than agree!
Barb Knowles
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