Wipe the outside of the oxygen concentrator using a soft, damp cloth to gently remove dust and maintain overall cleanliness
Mastering Oxygen Therapy: What You Need to Know
Oxygen therapy is essential for managing many respiratory conditions, and having the right equipment ensures safety and comfort. Oxygen Concentrators: The Ultimate User Guide is here to help patients, caregivers, and professionals understand how oxygen concentrators work, how to use them properly, and how to maintain them. Whether you’re new to oxygen therapy or upgrading your device, this guide from LifePlus Medical offers clear, practical insights.
Table of Contents :
1. What is an Oxygen Concentrator?
An oxygen concentrator is a machine that helps people with trouble breathing get more oxygen. It takes in the air around us, removes most nitrogen, and sends oxygen-rich air through a tube to a nosepiece (called a nasal cannula) or a face mask.
People use oxygen concentrators for health problems like COPD (a lung disease), pneumonia, sleep apnea, heart failure, or when they are recovering from illnesses that make it hard to breathe. Unlike heavy oxygen tanks, these machines give a steady oxygen supply without refills. They’re easy to use at home or while traveling, making oxygen therapy more straightforward and convenient.
2. Types of Oxygen Concentrators
There are two main types of oxygen concentrators available:
Stationary Oxygen Concentrators:
These are larger devices designed for home or long-term use. They require electrical power and can deliver higher oxygen flow rates, usually between 1 to 5 liters per minute (LPM) or more. These reliable and durable devices are not portable but provide a consistent and dependable oxygen source for mostly homebound patients.
Portable Oxygen Concentrators:
Smaller and lightweight, these units operate on rechargeable batteries and are designed for active users who need oxygen therapy while traveling or outside the home. Portable concentrators usually deliver pulse-dose oxygen, which releases oxygen only when the user inhales, helping conserve battery life.
3. How Does an Oxygen Concentrator Work?
Oxygen concentrators separate oxygen from the surrounding air using a process called Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA):
- The oxygen concentrator pulls in regular air from around you.
- It removes dust and other tiny particles from the air.
- The air passes through special filters that trap nitrogen.
- Oxygen passes through these filters and is collected.
- The machine sends you about 85% to 95% pure oxygen.
- The leftover nitrogen is released back into the air.
- This process keeps repeating to give you a constant supply of oxygen.
This process occurs continuously, providing a steady oxygen supply without needing compressed oxygen tanks.
4. How to Use an Oxygen Concentrator
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Set up the device: Place the concentrator in a well-ventilated area, away from walls or obstructions.
- Connect the tubing: Attach the oxygen tubing to the concentrator’s outlet port.
- Attach the nasal cannula or mask: Connect this to the other end of the tubing.
- Power on the device: Plug the concentrator into an electrical outlet and switch it on.
- Adjust flow rate: Set the oxygen flow rate as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Check for alarms: Ensure no alarms are sounding, indicating the device is working correctly.
- Wear the cannula or mask: Place it comfortably on your face, making sure it fits well.
5. Maintenance and Cleaning
Daily:
Weekly:
Clean the nasal cannula or oxygen mask using warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry to ensure hygienic use.
Monthly:
Check the air intake filter on the back or side of the oxygen concentrator. Clean reusable filters or replace disposable ones as recommended.
Annually:
Schedule professional servicing of the oxygen concentrator to inspect internal components, calibrate oxygen output, and ensure proper functionality.
6. Safety Tips: Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
✅Do keep the oxygen concentrator in a well-ventilated area.
✅Do use only LifePlus Medical-approved accessories and parts.
✅Do prepare backup oxygen options in case of power outages.
✅Do ensure the air intake and exhaust vents are clear
Don’ts
❌Don’t smoke or allow others to smoke near the device.
❌Don’t keep the concentrator near open flames or heat sources.
❌Don’t block or cover the air intake or exhaust vents.
❌Don’t use non-approved tubing or accessories.
7. Traveling with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator requires some preparation to ensure your oxygen therapy is uninterrupted:
To learn more about traveling smoothly with your portable oxygen concentrator, read the full guide on our blog here:[Travelling with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator in India: Tips and Tricks].
8. Troubleshooting Oxygen concentrator
Issue | Cause | Fix |
No oxygen flow | Tubing kinked or loose | Straighten or reconnect tubing |
Alarm sounds | Power or oxygen problem | Check power; restart device |
Device overheating | Poor ventilation | Move to open space |
Unusual noise | Loose parts |
9. Want to Purchase or Rent an Oxygen Concentrator?
If you’re considering purchasing or renting an oxygen concentrator, it’s important to choose the right device that fits your medical needs and lifestyle. LifePlus Medical offers a variety of oxygen concentrators, both stationary and portable, designed to provide reliable oxygen therapy.
Contact LifePlus Medical:
Address:
Office No 4, 3rd floor, Presidency Zone 1, Bendoorwell, Kankanady, Mangaluru, Karnataka 575002
Phone:+91 9035590807
Website: www.lifeplusmedical.com
Visit our store or website to explore products and speak with a specialist today.
10. Conclusion
Oxygen concentrators from LifePlus Medical provide a dependable solution for oxygen therapy at home and on the go. Following proper use, maintenance, and safety instructions ensures optimal device performance and your well-being. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.
