Treatment of Ebola Virus Disease with Hypoxaemia (SpO₂ < 92%) / Hypoxic Respiratory Failure
Hypoxaemia — peripheral oxygen saturation below 92% — and hypoxic respiratory failure represent a serious acute complication in Ebola virus disease. Prompt identification of the underlying cause and targeted oxygen management are essential.
When hypoxaemia is present in the context of EVD, an underlying pulmonary condition should be actively considered — including volume overload or pulmonary oedema from congestive heart failure or renal failure, secondary bacterial pneumonia, haemothorax, or bronchospasm from anaphylaxis.
Supplemental oxygen therapy is the indicated intervention, with the delivery device and flow rate selected and carefully titrated to the patient's clinical response.
Target: SpO₂ > 94%References
When hypoxaemia is present, then a pulmonary condition should be considered, such as volume overload/pulmonary oedema from congestive heart failure or renal failure, secondary bacterial pneumonia, haemothorax or bronchospasm from anaphylaxis.
Face mask with reservoir bag at 15 l/min can be used for adults and children in an emergency situation.
Titrate to lowest flow rate necessary to reach target SpO2 > 94%.
Nasal cannula is preferred in children as it may be easier to tolerate.
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