What is the primary purpose of supplemental oxygen in emergency care?

The primary purpose of supplemental oxygen in emergency care is to improve tissue oxygenation. Oxygen is essential for the cellular metabolism and function of tissues throughout the body. In situations where a patient's oxygen levels are low, such as in respiratory distress, trauma, or certain medical conditions, supplemental oxygen is administered to increase the amount of oxygen available in the bloodstream. This helps ensure that vital organs receive the oxygen they need to function properly, which is critical in preventing further complications and supporting recovery.

While addressing underlying conditions may be part of overall patient care, supplemental oxygen itself does not directly cure those conditions. Additionally, while controlling anxiety can have a role in patient care, it is not the primary function of administering oxygen. Stabilizing blood pressure is also important in emergency care, but it is not a direct effect of supplemental oxygen, which focuses mainly on enhancing oxygen delivery to tissues.