How to Use O2 With COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is the medical term for chronic obstructive damage to the lungs and airways. It involves emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and other long-term respiratory disorders.



Smoking is one of the chief causes of COPD, and smoking cessation is the first line of treatment, along with drugs that help to keep the airways open. Because the surface area of the lungs has been damaged, a patient with COPD finds it difficult to take in oxygen from the air that she inhales, and she might require oxygen therapy.

Things You'll Need

• A portable oxygen cylinder or compressor
• A flexible oxygen cord
• An oxygen face-mask or nasal prongs
• A doctor's prescription that states the amount of oxygen to use

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Instructions

• 1

  Check the amount of oxygen to be delivered from the tank to the patient. This will determine the rate of the flow, and it will be clearly documented on the prescription. When using it for the first time, it is best to check the amount on the prescription with a second person, so that no mistakes are made.

• 2

  Attach the flexible cord to the oxygen tank at one end, and the nasal prongs or mask at the other. Ensure that all of the equipment is free of dust or blockages, and that it is clean and ready to use.

• 3

  Oxygen equipment must be kept away from lighted cigarettes and naked flames.

  Turn the release-dial or press the "start" button if using an electronic device, and hold the mask or prongs to your ear. This is to check that all parts of the equipment are in good working order. A hissing indicates that the oxygen is flowing from the tank to the mask/nasal prongs.

• 4

  Ensure that the patient is sitting in a comfortable position. Or, if he is using a portable oxygen tank, make sure it is well secured underneath his clothing so that it remains in place while he moves about.

• 5

  Place the face mask over the mouth and nose, or place the nasal prongs one in each nostril, with the excess tubing looped around the ears then secured under the chin with the outer plastic tube.

• 6

  Turn the release dial, or set the electronic control, to the setting prescribed by the doctor. Observe the patient for signs of respiratory distress, such as breathlessness, or a blue tinge to the lips. If there are signs of respiratory distress, phone for medical advice.