Oxygen therapy (O2 therapy) provides supplemental oxygen to individuals who cannot get sufficient oxygen from the air they breathe. In a home setting, this usually involves a compressed gas cylinder, or tank, delivering the prescribed flow rate. Correctly setting up this equipment is vital for safety and therapeutic efficacy. These instructions are a general guide for handling and connecting a portable system, but users must always follow the specific instructions provided by their medical equipment supplier and healthcare provider.
Crucial Safety Measures Before Setup
Oxygen itself is not flammable, but it vigorously supports combustion. This means materials ignite and burn much faster in an oxygen-rich environment. Maintaining a safe environment is the primary step before attempting any setup. Keep all open flames, smoking materials, and heat sources away from the oxygen equipment at all times.
The oxygen tank and tubing should be kept at least ten feet away from appliances like gas stoves, space heaters, and lit candles to prevent combustion hazards. Proper ventilation prevents oxygen from building up in a localized area, which could increase the risk of fire. The heavy, pressurized tank must be stored upright and secured, typically in a stand or cart, to prevent tipping over and causing damage or injury.
Avoid using oil-based products, such as petroleum jelly or certain hand creams, on the face or near the equipment. These materials can react violently with concentrated oxygen, creating a fire risk. Always use water-based lotions and moisturizers if needed. Confirm that the tank’s valve area is clean and free of any grease before handling.
Components of a Portable Oxygen System
A portable oxygen system consists of several distinct parts that work together to deliver the prescribed gas. The primary component is the oxygen cylinder, a metal tank containing highly compressed, medical-grade oxygen. The regulator attaches to the tank and is the most complex part of the assembly.
The regulator performs two main functions: reducing the tank’s extremely high internal pressure to a safe, usable level and controlling the flow rate. It features a pressure gauge that displays the remaining oxygen content and a flow meter that allows the user to set the flow in liters per minute (LPM).
The connection point between the regulator and the tank valve often requires a small metal wrench or key to operate the valve. A yoke seal or washer is sometimes needed to ensure an airtight connection. The delivery device, usually a nasal cannula or a face mask, connects to the regulator’s outlet port via flexible tubing to deliver the gas to the patient.
Connecting the Regulator and Delivery Device
The first procedural step is to “crack the tank” by briefly turning the cylinder’s main valve counter-clockwise to release a small burst of gas. This clears any dust or debris from the valve outlet before attaching the regulator. Immediately close the valve afterward, and check that a new yoke seal or washer is in place on the regulator to guarantee an effective seal.
Next, align the regulator’s two small pins with the corresponding holes on the tank valve. This feature ensures only the correct type of regulator is used. Slide the regulator onto the valve stem and secure it firmly by tightening the T-handle screw clockwise until it is hand-tight, avoiding over-tightening. If a cylinder wrench is required, use it only to open the main valve, not to tighten the regulator connection unless specifically instructed.
With the regulator securely attached, slowly open the main cylinder valve by turning the wrench counter-clockwise, watching the pressure gauge needle rise. When the needle stops, the tank is fully open. The gauge indicates the remaining pressure, typically around 2000 pounds per square inch (psi) for a full tank. Now, attach the nasal cannula or mask tubing to the regulator’s oxygen outlet port.
Set the prescribed flow rate by turning the flow meter knob until the center of the indicator ball aligns with the correct LPM marking. Before placing the cannula on, briefly feel or listen for the oxygen flow at the prongs to confirm gas is exiting the system.
When the tank is not in use, turn the main tank valve fully off. Then, briefly open the flow meter to release the pressure trapped in the regulator. This protects the components and prevents leaks.
Recognizing and Addressing Setup Problems
A common issue during setup is a noticeable hissing sound immediately after the main tank valve is opened, indicating a leak between the tank and the regulator. If this occurs, immediately close the tank valve with the wrench. Check the position and condition of the yoke seal or washer, as it may be damaged or misaligned. Re-tighten the T-handle to ensure a better seal before slowly reopening the tank valve to check if the hiss has stopped.
If the flow meter does not register or if you cannot feel oxygen coming out of the cannula, first check the cylinder’s contents gauge to confirm the tank is not empty. If the tank is not empty, check the oxygen tubing for any kinks, twists, or splits that might be blocking the flow of gas.
A quick check involves placing the end of the cannula in a glass of water; steady bubbling confirms that oxygen is flowing through the delivery device. If troubleshooting these basic elements does not resolve the issue, or if the tank seems to run out of oxygen faster than expected, contact your medical equipment supplier immediately for technical support or a replacement unit.