Preparation for Visit:
Here are the key preparations and precautions a patient should take before receiving hyperbaric oxygen treatment:
Inform the medical team of all current medications, especially chemotherapy agents, seizure medications, steroids, and diabetic medications.
Notify staff of any symptoms such as cold, flu, fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever blisters, cold sores, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Remove all makeup, nail polish, hair products, and skin lotions.
Avoid alcohol and carbonated beverages for 4 hours before treatment.
Do not smoke or use tobacco products for 24 hours before treatment.
Wear only cotton clothing provided by the facility.
Remove contact lenses, dentures, and prostetics.
Notify your provider if you have a Tens Unit, Insulin Pump, Pace Make/Defibulator.
Do not bring any unauthorized items into the chamber, such as:
Lighters or matches
Battery-powered devices
Synthetic fabrics
Newspapers or magazines
Food or drinks
Discuss any concerns about claustrophobia with the medical team.
Follow any fasting instructions provided by your doctor.
Inform staff if you have any implanted medical devices.
Medications: Some medications are not compatible with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (Adriamycin, Bleomycin, and Sulfamylon). The nurse/technician will need to know all drugs you are currently taking. Each drug will be considered individually in relation to HBOT therapy, and if changes are necessary in your medication schedule, your physician will be consulted. While your doctors need to know all of your medications; chemotherapy agents, seizure medications, steroids, and diabetic medications are of particular importance.
Please be sure to inform the medical team of all such medications that you are taking now or have taken in the past. Cold and Other Illnesses: It is important that you notify us if you have symptoms of a cold or the flu – fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever blisters, cold sores, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and general feelings of discomfort or illness. HBOT treatments may be postponed until your symptoms have subsided and the HBOT physician has cleared you.
Pre-dive Physical Exam:
A pre-dive physical exam is a crucial step before undergoing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This examination ensures the patient’s safety and determines their suitability for the treatment. Here’s a breakdown of what a pre-dive physical exam typically involves:
Evaluate the patient’s medical history
Identify any potential contraindications or risks related to HBOT
Establish a baseline to monitor the patient’s response to the treatment
Medical History Review
The physician will review the patient’s full medical history, which includes:
Past and current medical conditions
Surgical history
Allergies
Current medications
Previous experiences with HBOT or diving, if applicable
Special attention will be given to conditions that may be influenced by pressure changes or high oxygen levels, such as:
Respiratory disorders (e.g., asthma, COPD)
Cardiovascular diseases
Recent surgeries
Ear, nose, and throat concerns
Physical Examination
A thorough physical examination is performed, focusing on
Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature)
Cardiovascular system
Respiratory system
Neurological status
Ear, nose, and throat examination
The physician will pay particular attention to
Lung function and breath sounds
Heart rhythm and sounds
Eardrum mobility and sinus patency
Specific Tests
Depending on the patient’s medical history and current condition, additional tests may be required:
Chest X-ray to evaluate lung condition
Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart function
Pulmonary function tests to measure lung capacity and function
Ear examination with tympanometry to assess eardrum mobility
Medication Review
The physician will carefully review all medications the patient is taking, as some may interact with HBOT or require dosage adjustments
Patient Education
The healthcare provider will explain the HBOT procedure, potential risks, and expected benefits
Instructions on how to equalize ear pressure during treatment will be provided
The importance of reporting any discomfort or unusual symptoms during treatment will be emphasized
Consent Process
After discussing the treatment, risks, and benefits, the patient will be asked to sign an informed consent form.
Customized Treatment Plan
Based on the examination results and the patient’s specific condition, the physician will create a tailored HBOT treatment plan, which includes:
Number of sessions required
Duration of each session
Pressure levels to be used
Our pre-dive physical exam is essential for ensuring patient safety and maximizing the effectiveness of HBOT. It allows healthcare providers to identify any potential issues that could affect the treatment’s safety or success, and to make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
By thoroughly assessing the patient’s health status and addressing any concerns prior to starting HBOT, the pre-dive physical exam helps minimize risks and enhance the potential benefits of this innovative treatment.