Questions?
How do I know if there is enough oxygen left in a system?
Talk with the home oxygen provider (HOP) about the timetable for your system. The amount of time will vary by the size of a cylinder or type of device. For example a large tank when full, will provide enough oxygen for over 100 hours. A smaller tank will provide oxygen for a maximum of about 20 hours. To avoid running out of oxygen, reorder your new supply when the register reads ¼ full. A person’s ordered flow rate will affect how long an oxygen system lasts.
Can I ever give a person too much oxygen?
Yes, in fact with some conditions, giving more oxygen will remove the stimulus for a person to breathe. Always give oxygen at the flow rate prescribed by the person’s doctor. Do not adjust the flow rate on your own.
Can the person I care for travel with oxygen?
The ability to travel depends on the person’s general health and tolerance to exercise and stress. Traveling with oxygen takes planning. Talk with your doctor and HOP. Sometimes there is a need to adjust the amount of oxygen the person receives, especially if traveling to different altitudes. Consider how long the person will be gone, the method of travel (car, plane or bus), and how long it will take to get there. If the person plans to fly, you must have a statement from the doctor saying the person needs oxygen to fly. Learn about the airlines guidelines for traveling with oxygen.
What should I do if the person becomes hypoxic?
If you think the person you are caring for has signs of hypoxia, notify the person’s doctor immediately. The doctor may adjust the amount of oxygen the person is receiving. If you find the person on oxygen is unresponsive, very confused, and showing respiratory distress (breathing very rapidly and with much difficulty) call 911.