O2 Concentrator Instructions

An oxygen concentrator is used to concentrate oxygen in a room or, via nose tube, for a patient. Though these devices cost upwards of $800 (U.S., as of January 2011), the cost is much cheaper than refilling tanks of compressed oxygen, which can cost several thousand dollars a year. Learning to use your compressor won't be difficult. Just make sure you use it safely, according to your particular manufacturer's instructions. The following guide is for the DeVilbiss concentrator, though most are operated in a similar fashion.

Things You'll Need

• Tubing of appropriate gauge for your device
• Respiratory face mask

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Instructions

• 1

  Plug your oxygen concentrator into a outlet power and turn on the power switch, usually on the display of your device. See whether any display indicator lights alert you to system problems such as an unclean filter. Unplug the device.

• 2

  Connect your oxygen tubing to the oxygen port, usually located at the center front of your concentrator. Make sure you attach sufficient tubing to reach the patient.

• 3

  Make sure your air filter is clean. Look on the back of the concentrator for a door to your filter. Open the door and unscrew the filter by its top knob. Unscrew the filter's lid and wash the entire mechanism, inside and out, in a sink with detergent. Replace the water in the unit to the fill line and return the lid. Dry the filter body and screw it back into its port. Close the air filter door. Plug in the device and turn it on again.

• 4

  Attach your respiratory face mask and the other end of your oxygen tubing. Place the tubing mask on the patient.

• 5

  Breathe. Your monitor lights should be illuminated for power and normal oxygen function. A display light should alert you if oxygen supply is low or if service is required. Refer to your manual for troubleshooting steps.