How to Set an Oxygen Flow Meter for Nasal Cannula

If you're sick and need help breathing, your doctor may prescribe that you receive extra oxygen into your system. Sometimes this is delivered via a nasal cannula, which is a thin, plastic tube that fits around your head, with two small ports that deliver the oxygen into your nose. The key to using this properly is to make sure you set the oxygen flow meter correctly, otherwise you're delivering more or less oxygen than necessary, which could be dangerous.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor and discuss the recommended liters per minute for your situation. Make sure he tells you when to use the oxygen, and for how long.

• 2

  Locate the oxygen flow meter, which is on the top of the oxygen bottle. Locate the adjusting knob for the meter, which is the handle underneath the gauge.

• 3

  Turn the adjusting knob on the flow meter counterclockwise to increase the flow coming out of the oxygen bottle, and clockwise to decrease the flow. Make sure the number displayed on the gauge is the same as your doctor's recommendation.

• 4

  Locate the locking button on the regulator and push it up with your hands. Align the "On" arrow to the port on the regulator that your nasal cannula is connected to by turning the regulator.