Caring for someone on home oxygen therapy

If you are caring for someone on home oxygen therapy you need to be aware of a number of safety precautions involving the safe use of oxygen.

Oxygen is highly combustible. Anyone using oxygen needs to be taught how to correctly handle oxygen equipment.

It's important to share the following guidelines with any visitors:

• Oxygen is highly combustible. Do not smoke near oxygen cylinders or store near open flames. Avoid using aerosol sprays near oxygen equipment.
   
• Store oxygen away from sources of heat in a well ventilated room. Do not cover cylinders with cloth or plastic.
   
• Ensure oxygen concentrators are serviced regularly.
   
• Always follow a doctor's orders regarding oxygen flow rates.
   
• Be careful of the tripping hazards of long oxygen tubing.
   
• Check oxygen tubing for kinks. Clean and change oxygen tubing, nasal prongs and masks as directed by a nurse.
   
• Oxygen tubing can irritate the skin and cause dry nose, mouth and lips. Try moisturising the skin or wrapping gauze over the tubing.
   
• Encourage fluids (unless contraindicated) as oxygen can cause dehydration.
   
• Keep the details of your oxygen supplier handy and always ensure you have an adequate supply of oxygen at home.
   
• Report to a doctor any changes in breathing patterns, colour and amount of sputum, headache, confusion, lethargy and anxiety.
   
• If oxygen is not in use ensure valves are turned off.

 

Related articles

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Care of someone with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Oxygen therapy
• COPD: Knowing when to call the doctor