Oxygen cylinders provide a portable or stationary source of supplemental oxygen for individuals with respiratory conditions. These devices store medical-grade oxygen under high pressure. Proper handling and specific knowledge are necessary to ensure the safe and effective use of this equipment. Learning the correct procedures for setup, monitoring, and safety precautions is essential for cylinder oxygen therapy.
Essential Components and Terminology
The Cylinder Body is the storage vessel, usually constructed from high-strength steel or aluminum. Oxygen is stored inside at high pressure, often exceeding 2,000 pounds per square inch (PSI) when full. The Valve is located at the top and controls the release of the oxygen.
A Pressure Regulator attaches directly to the valve to reduce the internal pressure to a safe, consistent level for patient use. The regulator incorporates a Flowmeter, which allows the user to set and monitor the prescribed rate of oxygen delivery in Liters Per Minute (LPM). This rate must correspond exactly to the doctor’s instructions. Oxygen is delivered via a Nasal Cannula or an Oxygen Mask.
Step-by-Step Setup and Activation
First, ensure the valve opening is clear of debris by briefly opening and quickly closing the cylinder valve (“cracking the valve”). Next, securely attach the pressure regulator to the valve, ensuring the washer is correctly positioned to create a tight seal. Hand-tighten the regulator using a T-handle until it is snug.
Once the regulator is attached, open the main cylinder valve using the provided wrench. Turn the valve slowly, counter-clockwise, for about one-half to one full turn. Slow opening allows the high-pressure gas to enter the regulator and helps prevent the ignition of contaminants. The pressure gauge will immediately indicate the amount of oxygen remaining.
The final step involves setting the prescribed flow rate using the flowmeter dial. Turn the dial until the indicator aligns precisely with the LPM setting specified by the physician. Never adjust this flow rate without explicit medical instruction. Connect the delivery tubing to the flowmeter outlet and confirm the oxygen is flowing before use.
Monitoring and Ongoing Use
Monitoring the remaining supply is necessary to prevent running out unexpectedly. The pressure gauge measures the gas pressure in PSI, which is proportional to the volume of oxygen left. A full tank registers around 2,000 PSI. Users should arrange for a replacement when the gauge needle drops into the red zone, typically 500 PSI or below.
To estimate the remaining time, a calculation involving the cylinder pressure, the prescribed flow rate (LPM), and a tank-specific conversion factor is necessary. For example, the E-cylinder formula involves multiplying the current PSI by the tank factor (0.28) and dividing the result by the LPM flow rate to yield the minutes remaining. Understanding this relationship is key to managing the supply.
When the cylinder is not in use, the main valve should be closed completely by turning it clockwise with the wrench. After closing the main valve, keep the flowmeter open briefly to allow the oxygen trapped in the regulator to bleed out until the pressure gauge reads zero.
Critical Safety Guidelines
Concentrated oxygen significantly increases the intensity and speed at which materials burn, making fire safety a primary concern. Cylinders and tubing must be kept at least 5 to 8 feet away from heat sources, open flames, or sparking electrical devices, including stoves, fireplaces, candles, and electric heaters.
Strictly prohibit smoking or the use of electronic cigarettes where oxygen is being used or stored. Never use oil, grease, or petroleum-based products, such as petroleum jelly, on or near the equipment. These substances can react violently with concentrated oxygen if a spark occurs, potentially causing ignition.
Cylinders must always be stored in a secured, upright position, preferably in a stand or cart, to prevent tipping and valve damage. Storage areas should be well-ventilated. Cylinders should never be kept in enclosed spaces where vented oxygen could accumulate and become a hazard. Use only water-based lubricants and keep internal doors open for ventilation.