What consequence of prolonged oxygen therapy should a therapist monitor for in a patient receiving high levels of FiO2?

Monitoring for absorption atelectasis in a patient receiving high levels of FiO2 is essential because this condition can occur when high concentrations of oxygen are administered over an extended period. When oxygen levels are elevated, it can lead to the absorption of nitrogen in the alveoli, which helps maintain the stability of the alveoli. With nitrogen being displaced by oxygen, the alveoli can collapse due to a lack of sufficient gas volume—resulting in atelectasis.

This phenomenon occurs particularly in lung segments that are poorly ventilated or already compromised, and it's critical for a therapist to be vigilant about this during prolonged oxygen therapy. By ensuring that patients are adequately monitored for this complication, therapists can intervene early if necessary, helping to prevent significant respiratory issues that can result from collapsed alveoli.

In contrast, while lung inflammation and increased heart rate may be observed in patients receiving high levels of oxygen, they are not direct consequences specifically associated with the use of high FiO2 over time to the same extent as absorption atelectasis. Enhanced oxygen delivery is generally a goal of oxygen therapy, not a consequence that needs monitoring for complications.