Rational Use of Oxygen in COVID-19 Pandemic – Are We Doing Enough?

Abstract

During the episodes of large case surge of COVID-19, the health care system of many nations have struggled, more so in nations with resource limitations. Recently, Nepal and the neighboring nation India are being hit hard by the pandemic. Management of patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 remains largely supportive, with oxygen therapy being the cornerstone of the management. Procurement, maintenance of oxygen supply system, coupled with avoiding misuse and wastage of oxygen is of paramount importance to better utilize the scarce resources amidst the peaks of a pandemic. Nepal needs to adopt policies to make best use of its oxygen stores and supplies with a collective effort from all stakeholders to save additional lives.