How to use an oxygen concentrator?

Posted by Bikram Paul on October 21st, 2021

Oxygen Concentrators have played an important role in saving millions of lives during the pandemic. However, some people are still struggling to use the oxygen concentrators smoothly. Let’s find out some of the important factors related to its use that will help you setting up a new Oxygen concentrator. 

A standard oxygen concentrator filters the air around it to give the greatest supply of oxygen at home. This medical equipment is highly beneficial for those who have respiratory issues. The advantage of utilizing an oxygen concentrator is that it does not need to be replaced or refilled for lengthy periods of time and is simple to use. Once you learn how to operate the concentrator correctly, you won\\'t have to worry about setting up a new one or replacing an old one.

How does it work? 

Oxygen concentrator equipment extracts oxygen from the air and delivers it to users via a cannula or a mask. You will be surprised to know that the air we breathe is made up of roughly 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen, and the rest is made up of various other gases. The oxygen concentrator works by capturing ambient air and purifying nitrogen and other gases out. The oxygen is taken and stored in a cylinder for the user to breathe.

When should we use an oxygen concentrator? 

It is important to understand that the usage of an Oxygen Concentrator is only recommended when a person requires supplemental oxygen owing to a low oxygen level in the blood. No individual should self-diagnose and get an oxygen concentrator for themselves. The recommendation should come from a competent medical expert. Before the recommendation, the experts will check the blood oxygen levels with the use of a Pulse oximeter. If your sp02 or the oxygen saturation is less than 95%, then they will suggest an oxygen concentrator.

What is the best oxygen concentrator for home?

A stationary oxygen concentrator is perfect for home use. If a patient requires continuous oxygen supply, even while sleeping and relaxing, then the stationary oxygen concentrator must be plugged in at all times along with power back up in case there is any power outage. Before recommending an oxygen concentrator, the expert must know the flow rate of necessary oxygen for the patient. Experts are well aware of what level of oxygen is required by the individual depending on their low oxygen level in the blood.

Where should I place the oxygen concentrator?

It is okay to keep the oxygen concentrator anywhere inside the house. However, while using the device it is required to keep it one foot away from the walls, sofa, bed, or any device that may disrupt the machine. Make sure the device and wall are in 1-2 ft distance because the compressor inside the machine needs space. The compressor takes sufficient air from the room or purifies it to pure oxygen inside the machine. If you are not keeping enough gap between the wall and machine, the machine will fail to take enough ambient air to provide sufficient pure oxygen.