Definition of oxygen tent

The term "oxygen tent" originated in the early 20th century, during a time when medical technologies were rapidly advancing. Oxygen therapy, the use of oxygen to aid respiration and treat breathing disorders, became a common treatment for patients with conditions such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and other respiratory illnesses. The high concentration of oxygen required for these patients presented a challenge, as inhaling too much oxygen could be dangerous and potentially fatal. To address this issue, medical professionals began using a specially designed enclosure called an "oxygen tent" to deliver oxygen to the patient. The oxygen tent, also known as a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, was essentially a large, tent-like structure made of transparent materials such as canvas or plastic. The patient would lie inside the tent, surrounded by oxygen-infused air delivered through a tube and mask. The enclosure prevented room air from entering the environment, thereby ensuring that the patient received a constant and consistent supply of oxygen. Today, the use of oxygen tents is less common due to advancements in medical technology and improved treatments for respiratory illnesses. However, they continue to be used in certain situations, such as for premature infants with respiratory distress or during emergency medical transport for patients with severe respiratory issues.