precautions while using oxygen therapy

Store oxygen containers in an upright position in a well ventilated area. Make sure theyre secured so that they dont tip over. Make sure smoke detectors in the home are working. Have fresh batteries installed. Perform monthly checks. Have a fire extinguisher available in the home as well. (Use type ABC.) Create and practice an escape and rescue plan in the event of a fire.

Keep extra charged batteries for your oxygen concentrator. Notify the local fire department, gas and electric companies and telephone company when home oxygen therapy is started. Request a priority service listing. This is for those times when there is a power or telephone failure or repairs are needed on any utility.

Keep oxygen tubing less than 50 feet long so you dont dilute the amount of oxygen that reaches your lungs. Home oxygen therapy is considered a medicine. If you are using home oxygen it is important that you follow your doctors oxygen prescription, which explains when you should use oxygen and the flow rate you should use. The cost of home oxygen therapy is subsidised by the government for people who meet strict eligibility criteria.

Keep a fire extinguisher in your home, and make sure your smoke detectors are operational. Oxygen is a safe, non explosive gas when handled correctly. However, any material that is already burning will burn much faster and hotter in an oxygen enriched environment, so the following precautions should be observed when you use home oxygen.

Post No Smoking signs in the room where your oxygen is kept. Post a Oxygen in Use sign on the front door to let visitors and emergency workers (like fire department) know that oxygen is in use at home. Check that all electrical equipment in the area near the oxygen is properly grounded. Secure loose cords and extra tubing so you dont trip on them when using your oxygen system. Secure floor mats and rugs so that you will not trip or fall when using your oxygen system. Never use extension cords with any medical equipment. Be sure doorways, hallways and rooms can accommodate you if you have a portable oxygen system.

Do not use cleaning products or other products containing grease or oils, petroleum jelly, alcohol or flammable liquids on or near your oxygen system. These substances cause oxygen to be flammable.

Game controllers should not be used with oxygen; the new systems that vibrate and

Oxygen must be used as your doctor ordered it. Too much or too little can be harmful. Do not change the oxygen flow rate on your own this can lead to serious side effects. If you feel you are not getting enough oxygen, contact your physician and notify your home care supplier. Never use more than 50 feet of oxygen tubing. This can dilute the concentration of oxygen that you are receiving. Do not smoke or allow others to smoke in the same room as your oxygen system.

Stay at least 6 feet away from any open flame or heat source (candles, gas stove, etc.) when you are using your oxygen system. If you must cook while using oxygen, make sure your tubing will not touch the gas flame or electric burner. (Tuck the tubing in your shirt or position it behind you.)

Petroleum based products (such as Vaseline) should not be used on the face when oxygen is being used. Do not allow alcoholic solutions, oil or grease to come into contact with oxygen supply devices. This includes petroleum jelly. Check that all electrical equipment in the vicinity of the oxygen is properly grounded (earthed).