How is a hyperbaric treatment administered?
By definition, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is administered to a patient in a pressurized chamber. The hyperbaric chamber is a steel, aluminum or clear plastic room in which air can be compressed to a pressure that is greater than sea level. There are basically two types of chambers, monoplace and multiplace. Monoplace Chambers: A monoplace chamber is a system that accommodates one patient at a time. The patient lies down on a stretcher which slides into the chamber. Typically the chamber is pressurized with 100% oxygen. The patient receives 100% oxygen by breathing the oxygen inside of the chamber. A mask or a hood is not needed. Monoplace chambers have the capability to be pressurized to 3 ATA. Other than decompression sickness and gas embolism, the UHMS protocols for hyperbaric therapy do not require greater than 3 ATA of pressure for treatment. Critically ill patients requiring extensive life support equipment can be treated in the Sechrist monoplace. (Other monoplace manufacturers do
