Home Oxygen Use
What is it and why is it prescribed?
Oxygen is a gas that has no taste, color or odor. It is used by the body to sustain life. The oxygen in the lungs flows into the blood stream. It is carried by red blood cells to all of the tissues and organs of the body.
Your doctor may prescribe oxygen for you if your lungs are not getting enough by breathing room air. The prescribed oxygen is a drug that needs a doctor’s order. It may be ordered for constant use 24 hours a day or for use only during exercise or sleep.
Oxygen equipment
The flow meter controls how fast the oxygen comes out of the tank. This is measured with liters per minute (LPM).
The pressure gauge shows the amount of oxygen that is left in the tank.
The nasal cannula is the device that carries the oxygen into your nose. It is tubing with two prongs that are placed into your nostrils and secured around your ears. The cannula connects to tubing that is attached to the oxygen tank.
The mask is used when a high flow of oxygen is needed. It is also used when the nose is clogged or sore. It is placed over your mouth and nose and secured by an elastic strap that wraps around your head.
The oxygen cylinder is the holding device for the oxygen. It can be small, about 6-15 pounds or large. The small one allows you to carry it with you for a short time when away from home. The large tank is heavy and is fixed in place when used.
Care of Equipment
Your equipment should come with care instructions. The service vendor should explain them to you.
You should wash the nasal cannula once or twice a week with soap and water. Make sure to rinse all soap from it. The cannula can be replaced every two to four weeks. Do not use oil, grease, or Vaseline® on the cannula at any time.
Keep all items clean and free of dust. Cleaning the tank should be done with a damp cloth. NEVER use oils, grease, petroleum jelly, alcohol, or any flammable liquid on or near the oxygen equipment. Oxygen is highly flammable.
Oxygen tanks should always be kept grounded. To move the tank, put it in a cart or lay it flat. There are special cases and straps that your vendor can show you. Do not carry the tank in a backpack or hand bag.
Safety measures
- Do not smoke or be in the same room with someone who is smoking.
- Do not store the equipment near heat sources or any open flames. Keep the equipment at least six feet away.
- Make sure that the rooms you are in and where the equipment is stored are well-ventilated.
- Stay away from aerosol sprays and cans.
- Do not expose the equipment to electrical appliances, for instance, hair dryers, electric blankets, and electric razors.
- Make sure that the smoke detectors in your home are working well.
- Always check that rugs, floor mats, and cords are secure so that you do not trip and fall when using your oxygen.
- Never change the oxygen flow rate that is prescribed by your doctor.
- Keep phone numbers of your oxygen vendor handy at all times in case of an emergency or questions.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 11/12/2008
Copyright © 11/12/2008 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #6824
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