Why is oxygen administered to a client with chest pain due to a coronary occlusion?

Administering oxygen to a client with chest pain due to a coronary occlusion is primarily done to increase the oxygen concentration to heart cells. When there is a blockage in the coronary arteries, blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle is impeded, which can lead to ischemia—an insufficient supply of oxygen that may cause tissue damage and chest pain. By providing supplemental oxygen, the goal is to ensure that the heart muscle receives as much oxygen as possible, vital for its function and to help mitigate the effects of the occlusion.

This increase in oxygen availability can alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and potentially stabilize the patient while further treatment options are considered. In the context of coronary occlusions, the heart muscle often needs more oxygen to cope with the demands placed on it, especially during times of stress. Thus, the administration of oxygen becomes a crucial aspect of managing acute coronary symptoms.