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Hypoxia

Inadequate oxygen at the tissue level.

Hypoxia is inadequate oxygen at the tissue level and is a medical emergency if not corrected. Restlessness, anxiety, and confusion are early signs because the brain is highly sensitive to low oxygen, whereas cyanosis is a late and ominous sign. Apply oxygen, raise the head of the bed to optimize ventilation, and identify the underlying cause while monitoring oxygen saturation and level of consciousness.

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