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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivers 100% oxygen at high pressure, typically ranging from 1.9 to 3.0 atmospheres absolute, within a specialized chamber. Treatments usually last 90 to 120 minutes. The patient's entire body should be enclosed in a hard-sided hyperbaric chamber. This therapy is indicated for various conditions, including decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, air and gas embolism, necrotizing soft tissue infections, refractory osteomyelitis, and delayed radiation injuries. Both the high-pressure environment and the resulting hyperoxygenation influence the cardiovascular system by altering systemic vascular resistance, electrical conduction, cardiac contractility, and neovascularization. Understanding these physiological effects is essential for optimizing the clinical use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Management of cardiovascular toxicity from HBOT involves closely monitoring cardiac function, adjusting treatment protocols as necessary, and providing supportive care, including medications to manage arrhythmias or ischemic events. This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance learners' competence in identifying and addressing the cardiovascular effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Participants will broaden their grasp of the risk factors for developing these complications, as well as their symptoms. The best practices for evaluating and managing these manifestations will be discussed. Greater proficiency equips clinicians to collaborate effectively within an interprofessional team caring for patients undergoing this intervention. Objectives: Identify the signs and symptoms indicative of cardiovascular toxicity from hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Select the most appropriate diagnostic tools for evaluating suspected cardiovascular toxicity from hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Apply individualized strategies for managing the cardiovascular effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Collaborate with the interprofessional team to educate, treat, and monitor patients on hyperbaric oxygen therapy to improve health outcomes. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) delivers 100% oxygen at pressures 1.5 to 3 times higher than atmospheric levels, enhancing oxygen availability to support healing. However, both the high-pressure environment and hyperoxygenation affect the cardiovascular system in various ways. Understanding these mechanical and physiological changes is essential for optimizing the use of HBOT.[1][2][3]

HBOT clearly has detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system, particularly after repeated sessions. Little evidence suggests that a single session impacts the cardiovascular system. Therefore, patients undergoing repeated treatments should follow up with a cardiac nurse, cardiologist, and internist to assess for cardiac symptoms. Preventable risk factors for cardiac disease should be minimized, and patients should be encouraged to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid smoking. Healthcare workers should refrain from prescribing HBOT without a valid reason, and all members of the interprofessional team must be on the same page regarding the applications of this therapy.