Based on how much oxygen you require, your lifestyle, and your insurance coverage, you can choose the type of home oxygen delivery system that is best for you. When determining your need for oxygen therapy, your doctor will consult with you and is likely to recommend both a home delivery system and a mobile one.

Common Equipments And Oxygen Accessories

Here are the most common oxygen accessories and types of equipment available in the market-

● Home Oxygen Concentrator

A home oxygen concentrator is a particular kind of oxygen delivery system that takes air from the environment, filters out nitrogen and other gases, and then gives the user purified oxygen. Home oxygen concentrators must be hooked up to an electrical outlet in order to function and continually (at a steady pace) distribute oxygen.

● Portable Oxygen Concentrator

The operation of a plastic portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is comparable to that of a home concentrator, although it is much more portable. POCs can be powered by rechargeable batteries or by plugging them into an outlet. POCs can constantly (at a steady rate) give oxygen, however, the majority of POCs do so via a pulse dose (in bursts). Each time you inhale, an oxygen rush is sent to your body.

● Compressed Oxygen

One typical method of delivering oxygen is compressed oxygen stored in a metal tank. There are many sizes for the tanks, but the smaller the tank, the less oxygen it contains. The size of the tank your doctor recommends depends on how much oxygen you require.

While some portable oxygen tanks can be refilled by the patient, others must be returned to the oxygen supply company. Your doctor should decide on the oxygen flow rate, which can be adjusted using gauges on the tank.

● Nasal Cannula

It is one of the most essential oxygen accessories. A nasal cannula is a thin, hollow tube that slides easily inside the nose. It fastens to either the humidifier bottle or the oxygen tank.

● Facemask

The nose and mouth are covered by a facemask. To avoid carbon dioxide accumulating, facemasks must be placed at a higher flow. If you need more oxygen and humidity, or if you are unable to tolerate a nasal cannula, your doctor may advise a facemask instead.

● Humidifier

When oxygen fluxes are greater than 4 liters per minute, a humidifier is necessary (continuous). Your home's oxygen system and how much oxygen you require will determine the sort of humidifier you use. A humidifier can lessen the dryness that using oxygen can cause in the nose and sinuses. To prevent water from dripping into the tubing, the humidifier should always be level.

Oxygen Safety Precautions

Use oxygen carefully at all times. With the right application, oxygen is a safe gas. It supports combustion even if it doesn't burn. When consuming oxygen from any source, observe these safety measures (oxygen tank, oxygen concentrator, portable oxygen, etc.)

  • Notify the power company and the fire department that you are using oxygen.
  • Display "Oxygen in Use" signage where people can see them.
  • Never position the tank or device close to an open flame (e.g., matches, lit candles, or a stove in use). At least six feet should separate you from the oxygen tank.
  • When not in use, always turn your oxygen off.
  • Always make sure your oxygen tank has enough oxygen. Both the active tank and the backup tank are included in this.
  • The oxygen backup tank needs to be kept in a secure, well-ventilated area, laying flat (or upright and secured).
  • Check for leaks and cracks in the oxygen tubing. To keep the nasal prongs open, clean them.
  • Every day, check the prongs.
  • When your home's oxygen source is present, never smoke. No one else may smoke, please. Keep a "No Smoking" sign up and in plain sight at all times.
  • Avoid using your oxygen within six feet of any electrical devices, including heaters, toasters, toasters, and ovens.
  • Never use your oxygen in a space that contains combustible substances like oils, greases, aerosol sprays, lotions, or solvents.
  • When oxygen is being used, avoid using items with a petroleum base. Avoid using alcohol-containing products (e.g., skin products).
  • Make it a practice to regularly check the smoke detector's batteries and replace them as necessary.
  • If you need service or have any questions, contact the manufacturer of durable medical equipment (DME).
  • Keep fire extinguishers close by.

Conclusion

If your doctor determines that home oxygen therapy can improve your symptoms, you will be required to learn about oxygen accessories. You could also undergo a blood test or a pulse oximetry test and have an oxygen sensor placed on your finger or earlobe to measure the amount of oxygen in your blood. Additionally, you might be asked to breathe into a machine that measures how well your lungs are functioning. After the tests, a doctor will prescribe oxygen therapy if your oxygen levels are low.