What should be done when increasing altitude with a patient on a helicopter?

When a patient is taken to higher altitudes in a helicopter, the atmospheric pressure decreases, which can lead to a reduction in the partial pressure of oxygen available. This situation is particularly critical for patients who may already have compromised respiratory function or require supplemental oxygen.

Increasing the oxygen flow improves the inspired fraction of oxygen (FiO2). By providing a higher flow of oxygen, you can compensate for the reduced availability of oxygen due to the lower atmospheric pressure and ensure that the patient continues to receive adequate oxygenation. This is especially important for anyone who is already in a precarious health state or has conditions that affect their ability to oxygenate efficiently.

Maintaining the current oxygen flow or reducing it may not sufficiently address the diminished oxygen availability at higher altitudes, potentially leading to hypoxia or inadequate oxygen saturation levels, which can adversely impact the patient's condition, especially in cases of existing respiratory distress. Switching to manual ventilation might be necessary in certain emergencies, but it does not inherently address the need for increased oxygen flow at altitude. Therefore, increasing the oxygen flow is crucial for maintaining optimal oxygen delivery during altitude ascent in a helicopter.