Oxygen is frequently  given to patients routinely during the initial treatment of a myocardial infarction, but there is a lack of data to support or refute this. A recent systematic review found no benefit in patients who did not have baseline hypoxia. Oxygen therapy continues to be indicated for those with hypoxia and needs to be used with caution in COPD patients with carbon dioxide retention.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the role of oxygen in the management of acute myocardial infarction
2. Understand the potential for harm of unnecessary oxygen therapy