Important Information About Oxygen Therapy

Prescription Requirements
Oxygen therapy should only be used under the direction of your treating doctor. A current oxygen prescription is required and should clearly specify your prescribed oxygen flow rate or pulse dose setting, as well as the recommended duration of use each day, including overnight use if applicable.
 
Oxygen Device Setup
Pulse dose oxygen concentrators do not directly correspond to litres per minute (LPM) settings. For this reason, your device should be configured and checked by a qualified technician to ensure it matches your prescribed oxygen requirements.
 
Sleep Use Considerations
Not all portable oxygen concentrators are suitable for overnight use. Depending on your medical condition, your doctor may recommend a sleep study or further assessment before using a pulse dose device while sleeping.
 
Professional Delivery and Education
Home oxygen equipment should be supplied and commissioned by a trained technician in accordance with recognised Australian respiratory care guidelines. During installation, the technician should explain the operation of the equipment, including charging procedures, battery management, cleaning requirements, safety considerations and correct oxygen settings.
 
Fire Safety
Although oxygen itself does not burn, it significantly increases the intensity of fire. Keep oxygen equipment well away from open flames, heaters, gas appliances, candles and any source of sparks. Avoid using oils, grease-based products, petroleum jelly or alcohol-based substances on or near oxygen equipment.
 
Smoking and Oxygen
Smoking should never occur in the vicinity of oxygen equipment. Ensure family members, visitors and carers also refrain from smoking near oxygen therapy devices.
 
Tubing Safety
Take care when walking around oxygen tubing, as it may create a trip hazard. Position tubing carefully and keep walkways clear whenever possible.
 
Follow Your Prescribed Settings
Only use oxygen at the level prescribed by your healthcare provider. Never adjust your oxygen settings without first consulting your doctor or respiratory specialist.
 
Carbon Dioxide Retention
Some individuals may be prone to retaining carbon dioxide (CO₂). If you are unsure whether this applies to you, speak with your doctor for advice.
 
Understanding Pulse Dose Oxygen
Pulse dose concentrators deliver oxygen only when they detect an inhalation through the nose. To ensure correct operation, nasal cannulae must be worn properly and the user must be breathing through their nose. Pulse dose devices are generally not suitable for use with CPAP or BiLevel therapy equipment and are typically not recommended for overnight use unless specifically approved by your doctor.
 
Equipment Care and Maintenance
To ensure reliable performance, keep your oxygen concentrator clean and free from dust. As concentrators generate heat during operation, they should be positioned in a well-ventilated area with adequate airflow and away from curtains, bedding or other obstructions.
 
Learn How Your Equipment Works
It is important that you understand how to operate your oxygen concentrator correctly. Familiarise yourself with the user manual and contact your equipment provider if you have any questions or concerns regarding its operation.
 
Have a Backup Plan
Consider what action you would take if your oxygen concentrator stopped working unexpectedly. While home oxygen therapy is not commonly prescribed as life-support treatment, patients who require oxygen for extended periods or around the clock should discuss emergency backup arrangements with their doctor. This may include having access to a backup oxygen cylinder and knowing when to contact emergency services. If you experience breathing difficulties or are concerned about your oxygen supply, seek medical assistance immediately.