Oxygen therapy is a medical treatment that provides supplemental oxygen to ensure the body’s tissues receive an adequate supply. This therapy is typically prescribed for individuals with respiratory conditions that cause low blood oxygen saturation levels. Proper administration of the oxygen device is necessary to ensure the patient receives the full therapeutic benefit prescribed by their doctor. The correct setup and application require attention to detail to maintain comfort and safety for the user.
Preparing the Oxygen Source and Delivery System
Before any device is placed on the patient, the oxygen source must be prepared and verified to deliver the correct amount of gas. The first step involves connecting the delivery tubing to the oxygen source, which may be a portable tank or an electric oxygen concentrator. This connection is usually a simple barbed fitting that the plastic tubing slides onto, forming a secure seal. If the prescription includes a humidifier bottle to prevent nasal dryness, this bottle must first be filled with sterile or distilled water and securely attached to the regulator before the tubing is connected to its outlet port.
The flow rate, measured in Liters Per Minute (LPM), must be set precisely according to the doctor’s prescription. On an oxygen concentrator, the flow rate is adjusted using a dial or knob on the flow meter, where a floating ball indicates the current LPM setting. The center of the ball must align exactly with the prescribed number on the flow meter scale. For a compressed gas tank, the flow regulator must be turned slowly until the gauge displays the correct LPM.
It is important to ensure the concentrator has been turned on and allowed a moment or two to stabilize its output before setting the flow rate. The entire length of the tubing should be checked for any kinks, twists, or damage that could obstruct or reduce the flow of oxygen. After the correct flow is set, a quick check can be performed by listening for the gentle hiss of oxygen at the device end or by placing the prongs into a glass of water to see bubbles confirming flow.
Step-by-Step Application of the Device
The correct application of the oxygen delivery device is necessary for patient comfort and to ensure effective therapy. The most common device for home use is the nasal cannula, a lightweight tube with two short prongs designed to sit inside the nostrils. The prongs should be gently inserted so they curve downward, following the natural angle of the nasal passages, which helps prevent irritation.
The main tubing of the cannula then loops over each ear, similar to how eyeglasses are worn, and is brought together under the chin. A small plastic slide or clip on the tubing is then moved up toward the chin to secure the cannula in place. The fit should be snug enough to prevent the prongs from falling out but not so tight that it causes pressure or discomfort behind the ears or on the face.
Applying an Oxygen Face Mask
For a simple oxygen face mask, the molded plastic device is positioned over the patient’s nose and mouth. The bottom of the mask, which is typically wider, should cover the mouth, while the top portion fits snugly over the bridge of the nose. An adjustable elastic strap, which is attached to the sides of the mask, is then pulled over the top of the head to the back.
The strap’s tension should be adjusted so the mask forms a seal against the face without causing excessive pressure. Some masks feature a metal strip near the bridge of the nose that can be gently pinched to conform the mask to the face’s contours, further improving the seal. A proper fit prevents oxygen from escaping and ensures the patient is breathing the prescribed concentration of oxygen.
Essential Safety Measures and Ongoing Monitoring
Once the oxygen is correctly applied, several safety measures must be followed to mitigate risks associated with home oxygen use. Oxygen gas does not burn, but it actively supports combustion, meaning a fire will burn hotter and faster in an oxygen-rich environment. Therefore, all heat sources and open flames must be kept at least six feet away from the oxygen equipment, and smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere near the system.
Petroleum-based products, like petroleum jelly or oil-based lotions, must be avoided on the face or chest, as they can react with concentrated oxygen and pose a fire hazard. Instead, water-based creams or gels should be used to keep the skin around the nose and lips moisturized. The oxygen concentrator itself should be placed at least 12 inches away from walls or curtains to allow for proper airflow and to prevent overheating.
Ongoing monitoring includes checking the skin daily for any signs of redness or skin breakdown caused by pressure from the tubing, especially behind the ears, on the cheeks, and under the nose. The patient’s breathing should be observed for any changes. A pulse oximeter can be used to monitor the blood oxygen saturation level to confirm the therapy is effective.
Basic equipment cleaning is also necessary. The nasal cannula or mask should be washed weekly and replaced according to the supplier’s instructions, typically every two to four weeks. If the patient experiences increased breathlessness, a change in skin color, or if the equipment malfunctions, a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately.