All the oxygen that is made is delivered to the patient. Tubing is necessary in delivery of oxygen to the patient. The concentrator is powered by electricity. 90 to 95% of the oxygen is delivered by the concentrator. This machine is located on wheels and be easily moved from room to room. A good location should be provided in order for good circulation. There is a concentrator included in the development of this unit that runs off of a battery . This is very helpful in the event of a power outage.
Maintenance involves cleaning the air inlet and filter . The air inlet should never be covered. Filters can be hand washed in dish detergent every week.
Oxygen Cylinders:
This is the oldest but must popular source of oxygen people know about. This oxygen is compressed into the cylinders under high pressure. The concentration from this cylinder is 100%. Patients that require oxygen may find it in large or small cylinders. Smaller cylinders are used more quickly because they are portable. This is great for patients that still care for themselves. They can still get out and travel to the store and take care of personal business. Where as the larger cylinders have to be replaced as the oxygen is quickly used. The smaller portable cylinders can last a patient up to eight hours.
Maintenance involves checking the values very frequently. When the cylinder is emptied , the regular has to be removed and replaced with a new full cylinder.
When a patient is on oxygen it is necessary to keep check for an increased level of carbon dioxide in the blood. Some of the symptoms may include difficulty in sleeping and drowsiness. If you are asleep and take in more oxygen than you need , you will awake with a severe headache. If to little oxygen is received you will be very fatigued. You should stay in contact with your physician while on oxygen.
No one wants to be on oxygen. If you have a family member on oxygen : DO NOT SMOKE AROUND THEIR OXYGEN.
If you are the oxygen patient :STAY AWAY FROM OPEN FLAMES.
Caution should always be used no matter where you are . Oxygen can be very explosive if not handled correctly.
