AANA journal
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Although oxygen has been known to be toxic for more than 200 years, the clinical importance of oxygen toxicity was not appreciated until an epidemic of retrolental fibroplasia occurred in the early 1950s. Oxygen at high partial pressures is toxic to the respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems. Toxicity results from the formation of oxygen-free radicals. ⋯ Oxygen radical scavengers such as superoxide dismutase and catalase protect the body against normal levels of oxygen-free radicals. Oxygen toxicity can result from either reperfusion of ischemic tissue or prolonged exposure to high concentrations of oxygen. Limiting hyperoxia to maintain arterial oxygen percent saturation (SaO2) greater than or equal to 90% is recommended.
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The benefits of epidural anesthesia for the relief of pain associated with childbirth has long been recognized. Although epidurals are widely used for pain relief during the labor process, side effects and complications associated with epidurals do occur. The purpose of this review is to summarize the benefits, as well as the disadvantages of epidurals, in an effort to minimize those complications.