A portable oxygen tank provides a temporary supply of supplemental oxygen for individuals who require respiratory support outside the home. These systems utilize compressed gas cylinders, which store oxygen at extremely high pressures, often around 2,000 pounds per square inch (psi). Understanding the precise, sequential steps for connection and operation is necessary to ensure both safety and the correct therapeutic delivery of oxygen.
Essential Components and Pre-Connection Safety Checks
The portable oxygen system is comprised of three primary parts: the cylinder, the regulator, and the delivery device. The cylinder is the metal tank containing the pressurized oxygen, and its valve controls the release of gas. Attached to the tank is the regulator, which reduces the high pressure from the cylinder to a safe, usable flow rate for the patient.
The regulator features a pressure gauge that displays the remaining oxygen supply and a flow selector knob to control the volume delivered. Before connection, confirm the area is free of open flames, sparks, or combustible materials, as oxygen intensely supports combustion. Inspect the regulator for any visible damage, such as cracks, or contamination from oil or grease, which pose a fire hazard when mixed with high-pressure oxygen.
Check the tank’s pressure gauge before connection to ensure an adequate oxygen supply. A full tank typically reads approximately 2,000 psi, and providers recommend changing the cylinder when the pressure drops below 200 psi. Briefly “cracking” the tank valve—turning it on and quickly off—is used to clear the valve opening of any potential dust or debris before attaching the regulator.
Detailed Steps for Connecting the Regulator
The most common attachment method for portable tanks is the “yoke style” regulator, secured directly to the tank’s post valve. Verify the presence and condition of the sealing washer, or O-ring, located on the regulator’s inlet, which creates an airtight seal. A damaged or missing washer must be replaced immediately, as it will result in a dangerous leak.
Carefully align the regulator’s yoke with the tank’s post valve. Ensure the two small metal alignment pins on the regulator fit precisely into the corresponding holes on the tank valve; this pin-index safety system guarantees only the correct regulator type can be attached. The regulator should slide smoothly onto the valve, sitting level and flush against the cylinder.
Tighten the yoke screw, often called the T-handle, clockwise until the regulator is firmly secured to the tank. Only hand-tighten this handle; using tools to over-tighten the connection can damage the components and compromise the seal. The physical connection is complete once the regulator is stable, but the tank valve should remain closed.
Setting the Flow Rate and Operating the Tank
With the regulator physically secured, slowly introduce the high-pressure oxygen into the regulator mechanism. Turn the main tank valve counter-clockwise, typically one full rotation, using the provided cylinder wrench or built-in handle. This slow opening procedure prevents a sudden, high-pressure surge that could damage the regulator’s internal components.
The pressure gauge on the regulator will immediately register the pressure, confirming the oxygen supply is active. Check the pressure reading to ensure the tank has sufficient contents for the planned duration of use. The flow selector knob, which controls the oxygen delivery rate in Liters Per Minute (LPM), should still be set to the “off” or “zero” position.
Adjust the flow selector knob to the specific LPM prescribed by a healthcare provider. This might range from 1 to 6 LPM for a nasal cannula. Attach the oxygen delivery tubing—such as a nasal cannula or mask—to the regulator’s outlet connection. Briefly place the tubing end against the skin to feel the gentle flow of oxygen before beginning use.
Shut Down and Safe Handling of Equipment
When the oxygen is no longer required, shut down the system in the correct sequence to depressurize the regulator safely. Turn the main tank valve fully clockwise until it is completely closed, stopping the flow of high-pressure oxygen from the cylinder into the regulator. Never leave the system pressurized when not in use.
Once the cylinder valve is closed, the regulator still contains residual oxygen under pressure, indicated by the reading on the pressure gauge. To bleed this remaining pressure, slowly turn the flow selector knob to a flow setting, allowing the oxygen to escape until the pressure gauge returns to zero. This step is necessary before any attempt to disconnect the regulator.
When the pressure gauge reads zero, turn the flow selector knob back to the “off” or “zero” position. For storage, secure the portable tank upright in a stand or cart, or lay it flat, to prevent it from falling over and damaging the valve. Store the secured tank away from any sources of heat, ignition, or electrical appliances, ensuring the area is well-ventilated.