Oxygen Concentrators Instructions

Oxygen concentrators provide high concentrations of oxygen to patients who have trouble breathing. Concentrators deliver continuous or pulsed flows of processed ambient air at various liters per minute (LPM) flow rates with a certain percentage of oxygen. Some oxygen concentrators are stationary, but now many are made to be portable. Proper use of oxygen concentrators is essential -- you must be sure you know how to safely operate your concentrator.

Instructions

• 1

  Plug your oxygen concentrator into an electrical outlet. Keep your concentrator fully charged, as you want it to be ready to use at a moment's notice.

• 2

  Press the On/Off switch to turn the machine on. Most models have some type of alarm that may sound like a loud beeping. This indicates the machine is normalizing air pressure.

• 3

  Adjust the oxygen flow meter until it is at your prescribed flow. Some models have an adjustable knob, and others have a digital indicator.

• 4

  Adjust the nasal cannula until it rests comfortably on your face with the two prongs in the nostrils. Place the flexible plastic tubing around the ears and guide the rest of the tubing under your chin or behind your back. It should be taut but comfortable. When using an oxygen mask, place the mask over your mouth with the strap behind the head.

• 5

  Confirm that oxygen is flowing at a normal rate. Many machines have a green light to indicate when oxygen is flowing normally. If the flow is inadequate, examine all tubing for kinks or holes where oxygen is escaping. If you cannot normalize the oxygen rate, call the manufacturer.