An extremely reactive gas (O3) that is produced by the interaction of oxygen and an energy source (UV light, x-ray machine, generators, laboratory Hepa filter hoods, etc.). Ozone exposure can lead to deterioration of latex and most synthetic gloves.

A curve that shows the relationship between the partial pressure of oxygen and the percentage of saturation of hemoglobin with oxygen. Left shift – factors that shift the curve to the left include a decrease in temperature (hence temperature management for maximum oxygen in tissues), a decrease in carbon dioxide tension, and an increase in pH. Such factors cause an increase in affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen, and increased oxygen-binding capacity. Right shift – factors that favor a shift of the curve to the right. Accelerating the release of oxygen from oxyhemoglobin, are a rise in temperature (increased oxygen released to tissues increases collagen deposition for scar strength oxydative radical killing capability for neutrophils and enhanced mobility for macrophages), an increase in carbon dioxide tension, and a decrease in pH. These factors cause a decrease in the affinity of hemoglobin for oxygen and decreased oxygen-binding capacity so it can be released in the tissues. SEE hemoglobin saturation curve.

An unstable compound formed by the combination of hemoglobin and oxygen. Hemoglobin with oxygen is found in arterial blood and is the oxygen carrier to the body tissue.

The amount of oxygen utilized by the tissues, calculated as the difference between systemic oxygen delivery and systemic oxygen return.

Oxygen. Normal percentage in air is 21%.

A form of malnutrition in that it provides excessive nutriture (food) to a person sufficient to cause disease or complication of health; also, volume overfill of the stomach that can lead to reflux into the esophagus potentially leading to aspiration and VAP.

An instrument that looks at the results of practitioners activities, including complications, adverse events, short-term results of specific procedures and treatments, and long-term status of patients health and functioning.

Synonymous with epidemic, but a term often preferred when dealing with the public; does not evoke the same fear response as the term epidemic.

An artificial opening or stoma especially into a hollow organ or canal. Also ostium.

A feeding tube that is placed through the mouth with its distal end in either the stomach or small intestine.