Adult domiciliary oxygen therapy. Position statement of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

• Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and a stable daytime PaO2 of ≤ 55 mmHg (7.3kPa) live longer and have a better quality of life if provided with long-term continuous oxygen therapy. • It is reasonable to offer continuous oxygen therapy also to patients with other lung diseases that cause chronic hypoxaemia. • Indications for supplemental oxygen therapy during exercise (ambulatory oxygen therapy) and sleep (nocturnal oxygen therapy) are less clear.