Question

so the question is about oxygen safety we see increase in use of oxygen usage for copd patient in the home setting discuss what types of safety concerns are there with sending patient home on oxygen after short stay in the hospital.

Answer 1

Continuous oxygen therapy is very helpful and life saving measure for patients with chronic lung conditions. This requires sending the patient home with an oxygen supply equipment. Proper guidance and teaching is essential for the use of home oxygen therapy as the gas is highly inflammable.

The safety concerns while sending the patient home with oxygen therapy are

Positioning of the oxygen supply equipment: The oxygen supply equipment should be upright position and fixed to a stable surface in a well-ventilated area. Keep the oxygen supply equipment away from gas stoves, electric and gas heaters etc.

Situations to be avoided: Avoid smoking, light up open flames nearby the oxygen supply equipment and do not cover the oxygen supply equipment with cloth or plastic

Products to be avoided: Avoid use of flammable products like petrol, cleaning fluid, paint thinner, and aerosol sprays near by the oxygen supply equipment. Avoid use of petroleum-based creams and ointments by the patient while on treatment with oxygen.

Arrange fire extinguisher ​​​​​​in the patients room and smoke detectors in the home. Inform the electrical department regarding the use of oxygen at home.

Avoid use of an extension cord or power board to connect the oxygen supply equipment and always use grounded electrical outlet.

Inspect and service the oxygen supply equipment regularly according to the supplier’s instructions.