Oxygen concentrators are used to supply oxygen to someone who needs higher concentrations of pure oxygen. The concentrators are often used at home and in clinical settings. The machine draws oxygen directly from the room air and does not use oxygen cylinders. Nitrogen is absorbed by the machine and released back into the room air, delivering only pure oxygen to the patient. An oxygen concentrator does not have the high-flammability risk oxygen cylinders have and does not need to be refilled. But measuring approximately 3 ft. by 3 ft., they are not easily portable. The concentrators require a few steps to set up and a little maintenance to work properly.
Step 1
Plug the concentrator into the wall. Make sure the concentrator can reach you without using an extension cord. Attach the nipple adapter or bubble humidifier to the machine. Fill the bubble humidifier with distilled water to the maximum fill line. Refill as necessary to add moisture to the oxygen when the water reaches the "minimum" line.
Step 2
Connect the oxygen tubing to either the nipple adapter or bubble humidifier. Do not use tubing longer than 50 feet. Attach a connector piece to the end of the tubing. Place the nasal cannula or other oxygen device on the end of the tube.
Step 3
Put the prongs of the nasal cannula into the nose pointed upwards about ¼ inch. Place the nasal cannula tubing around the ears. Allow the remainder of tubing to fall underneath the chin or behind the back. Adjust the tubing if placing tubing underneath the skin for a snug fit. When using an oxygen mask, place the mask over your mouth with the strap behind the head. Adjust the tightness of the strap by pulling on the loose elastic band on each side of the mask.
Step 4
Turn on the oxygen concentrator and set it to appropriate flow level as prescribed by a physician. Use the concentrator only for the prescribed time and amount. Do not adjust flow levels or use longer than prescribed. Ensure the oxygen is flowing correctly by looking for a button on the concentrator indicating normal flow. The button may have a green light.
Step 5
Watch for yellow or red lights on the concentrator for abnormalities with the oxygen system. The lights may indicate oxygen flow is obstructed. Check all tubing and connections if the concentrator is not functioning correctly. Call the retailer where the machine was purchased or the manufacturer to arrange an inspection of the machine if the machine continues to not function properly. Use a backup oxygen system until the problem has been resolved.
Tips and Warnings
- Look for any nasal cannula tubing causing irritation near the nose or over the ears. A small amount of medical padding can decrease irritation. Wash bubble humidifier every 48 hours, and wipe down the concentrator weekly with a damp cloth to disinfect. Replace tubing monthly when using a bubble humidifier. Otherwise replace every three months. Nasal cannulas should be replaced every two weeks.
- Always place "No smoking; oxygen in use" signs on any room the concentrator is placed in. Keep away from radiators and heaters. Set up concentrators 12 feet from a wall, and never place a concentrator into a closet.
