Cannula

If you’re on oxygen therapy right now or have ever needed oxygen, it was almost certainly supplied using a nasal cannula. The rubber prongs and associated tubing that are placed into the nostrils and run along the side of the face and around the back of the head are referred to as a nasal cannula. The term “nasal prongs” is also used to describe them.

Although it may seem self-explanatory how to use a nasal cannula with oxygen therapy equipment, there are a few things you should know about this vital oxygen treatment accessory.

If you buy or rent an oxygen concentrator from American Medical, it will come with a nasal cannula and tubing, as well as all of the other accessories you’ll need to get started using it right away. Because the cannula does not come with instructions, you can use this article as a guide.

The nasal cannula, which you breathe through, is one of the most critical pieces of a portable oxygen concentrator. It’s most likely something you’ve seen and linked to oxygen therapy. But maybe you’ve never thought about what it’s called or how it works.

The nasal cannula is the most popular oxygen therapy method, according to specialists. Because of its compact size, it’s a popular choice for oxygen delivery because it’s less cumbersome and obtrusive than a full oxygen mask. So, let’s begin by asking the simplest of questions:

What exactly is a nasal cannula, and when do I require one?

The nasal cannula is a device that is used to deliver supplemental oxygen to people who require it. Two small prongs rest in your nostrils and lead to clear plastic tubing that tucks over your ears and connects below your chin, delivering oxygen. Your oxygen concentrator is then connected to a single tube.

The device is often used to give low-flow oxygen, however, there are times when high-flow nasal cannulas are required. Patients with COPD and other respiratory disorders are provided supplemental oxygen for both short- and long-term oxygen treatments.

This crucial little information presents another important question to us:

Exactly how does a Nasal Cannula work?

Nasal cannulas are compatible with oxygen concentrators with settings ranging from less than 1 LPM (litres per minute) to 6 LPM (litres per minute), which is the range in which most people require their dosage. Because nasal cannulas are not restricting, they are also excellent for persons who want to stay active and mobile.

The only time you might have an issue is if you require a greater dosage, you’re in too much pain, or you need to use oxygen treatment while sleeping and the cannula won’t stay in place because you toss and turn too much. A face mask would be a preferable choice in these situations.

Nasal Cannula Cleaning and Replacement

Once a week, give your nasal cannula a thorough cleaning. It doesn’t take long to give it a nice rinse and sanitation. Being in a dark and moist environment, bacteria will grow quickly inside the prongs, thus keeping it clean is essential. If you are sick, you should clean it after each use every day.

Clean it with a solution of clean water, gentle detergent and a little bit of vinegar. Make sure the solution gets swished around well inside the prongs, and rinse it out thoroughly under clean running water. Hang it up and let it dry completely before using it again.

Clean it using a mixture of clean water, mild detergent, and a pinch of vinegar. Make sure the fluid is properly swished about inside the prongs before rinsing it out under running water. Before using it again, hang it up to dry thoroughly.

Knowing how to properly care for your nasal cannula can not only extend its life but also ensure that your oxygen therapy is successful in the long run.

A nasal cannula will last roughly two months if kept clean during its usual lifespan. Once a month, you should replace your nasal cannula. The rubber will degrade and develop small cracks, which will host bacteria and mould, which you don’t want to breathe in. Replacement nasal cannulas are affordable and should be purchased in bulk to avoid running out.

Dryness and discomfort in the nasal passages are two problems you could encounter. This is prevalent in the winter and for those who need to utilise oxygen therapy for long periods of time or at a high level. A tiny humidifier bottle would be handy in this situation. Many of the more powerful concentrators come with a humidifier that can be used in conjunction with them.

Ask your doctor how often the parts of your oxygen therapy equipment should be cleaned and replaced.

Cleaning other parts of your oxygen concentrator, such as the oxygen filter, on a regular basis will have an impact on the operation of your nasal cannula.

The Takeaway 

The nasal cannula is a little device that connects to your oxygen concentrator and is inserted into your nostrils. It is critical to your oxygen therapy since it delivers pure oxygen without being obtrusive or inconvenient.

You can ensure that your equipment operates properly for the rest of its life if you take adequate care of it. For cleaning advice, please consult your doctor and the manufacturer.

The oxygen saturation levels in the blood that pass through the arteries of the body are known as blood oxygen levels (arterial oxygen). The oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in blood collected from an artery can be evaluated before they enter body tissues in an ABG test. The blood will be injected into an ABG machine (blood gas analyzer), which will provide you with a partial pressure of oxygen in your blood.

What are the Ideal Oxygen levels?

An equipment called a pulse oximeter can also be used to test blood oxygen levels.

• A pulse oximeter’s typical oxygen levels are normally between 95 and 100 percent.
• A blood oxygen level of less than 90% is considered low (hypoxemia).

ABG testing is commonly used to diagnose hyperoxemia, which is defined as blood oxygen levels above 120 mmHg. This is especially common in hospitals where patients are exposed to high supplementary oxygen pressures for long periods of time (3 to more than 10 hours).

By extracting blood from an artery in the wrist, elbow, or groin, you can examine your blood oxygen levels. When the needle enters the artery, you may experience a sharp pain. An ABG machine (blood gas analyzer) will be used to determine your blood oxygen levels in the form of partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2).

Use a pulse Oximeter to keep a tab on your Blood Oxygen Levels

A pulse oximeter is a compact, portable medical equipment that can be used anywhere. It’s most typically utilized when doctors need to swiftly determine your blood oxygen levels. It can also be used to track how your body reacts to specific drugs or extra oxygen. SpO2, or percent saturation of oxygen in the blood, is a measure of blood oxygen levels.

Blood oxygen levels are measured using a variety of ways. The most frequent methods for estimating oxygen saturation levels are blood tests and pulse-oximeter monitoring. Adults’ oxygen saturation (SpO2), or the amount of oxygen in their blood, should be between 95% and 100%. Hypoxemia is defined as a SpO2 level below 90%. The usual SpO2 range of 95 percent to 100 percent does not apply to persons with chronic lung diseases and other breathing issues. Individuals in this situation should speak with their doctors to identify the appropriate oxygen levels for their particular health situation. If blood oxygen saturation falls below 80%, it may affect heart and brain function, potentially leading to respiratory problems.

Oxygen concentrators are designed to supply oxygen to individuals affected with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as well as chronic hypoxemia and pulmonary edema in higher concentrations.

Pulse oximetry is a test that uses a pulse oximeter to detect blood oxygen levels. The method is fairly straightforward and needs only a few seconds of clipping the pulse oximeter between either of the fingers. The reading is displayed on the screen of the pulse oximeter. This test is significantly less accurate than ABG testing, however, it is easier to do when time is of the essence. A pulse oximeter’s typical oxygen levels are normally between 95 and 100 percent. But if you have lung problems, your normal levels may differ. Your doctor will be able to tell you what levels are considered normal for you.

Oxygen Concentrators are a Blessing for those with Low Saturation

In COVID-19 patients, oxygen saturation of 92 or 93 is not regarded as crucial; rather, it is merely a buffer that allows the patient to get to the hospital on time. In addition, it was imperative that oxygen be used wisely.

Because COVID-19 hampers lung function, oxygen is critical in the treatment of individuals with severe COVID-19. One of the most common symptoms in people with severe COVID-19 is shortness of breath or trouble breathing. It also reduces the amount of oxygen delivered to different sections of the body. As a result, they require oxygen therapy, which is provided by medical oxygen.”

The training manual of the World Health Organization on pulse oximetry suggests, “If the oxygen saturation is 94 percent or lower, the patient should be treated immediately, a saturation level of less than 90% is considered a medical emergency.”

According to the most recent clinical advice for the management of adult COVID-19 patients, an oxygen concentration of less than or equal to 93 percent on room air necessitates hospital admission, while a concentration of less than 90 percent is defined as a severe disease, necessitating ICU admission.

COVID-19 is a disease that affects the lungs. It not only infects the respiratory tract, but it also has a significant impact on oxygen saturation levels in severe COVID-19 patients. Oxygen concentrators and cylinders are extremely beneficial in COVID patients due to oxygen depletion and rising lung infections. The air we breathe contains around 78 percent nitrogen and 21% oxygen, with the remaining 1 percent made up of various gases. Oxygen concentrators are machines that remove nitrogen from the air and supply pure oxygen to those whose blood oxygen levels (SpO2) fall below 93 percent. The ideal oxygen level of an individual is suggested to be between 94 and 99 percent.

Experts advise oxygen concentrators can be used in moderate cases of COVID-19 when the patient’s oxygen levels drop and the oxygen requirement is less than 5 liters per minute. They also warn that using a concentrator without medical supervision can be dangerous. Additionally, Oxygen concentrators are also beneficial for individuals who require oxygen therapy as a result of post-COVID-19 problems.

Patients suffering from moderate COVID-19-induced pneumonia who had an oxygen saturation of less than 94 percent could benefit from supplemental oxygen delivered through a concentrator, but only until they were admitted to the hospital. Patients who use it without seeking appropriate medical counsel, on the other hand, may be at risk. Concentrators may be helpful until patients are admitted to the hospital, but they should not be utilized without consulting a chest physician or an internal medicine expert.

Is it more important for me to rely on a battery-life oxygen supply or oxygen concentrator? What is the best unit size for me? Do I want a big cylinder in the house or a small concentrator that I can pass around?

These are often the questions one finds oneself in while scouting for an appropriate oxygen support machine. But the task is easier said than done. However, we can help you make smart choices by dissecting through these two machines and making it easier for you to choose from. So, read on and grow smarter!

Both oxygen cylinders and oxygen concentrators are used to provide oxygen to patients who need it. However, the distribution mechanisms are vastly different. Oxygen Cylinders are more common in India, but Oxygen Concentrators are becoming increasingly popular among doctors and patients.

The biggest distinction is about how oxygen is delivered. Oxygen Cylinders have a finite amount of compressed oxygen that the consumer inhales before it runs out. Oxygen Concentrators filter and produce medical-grade oxygen offering an uninterrupted supply as long as the battery that drives the device is still alive.

On the contrary, patients with low oxygen levels in their blood will use an oxygen concentrator to purify the air and make it accessible to them. Cylinders do the same thing, except the oxygen in the tank is already compressed. The tank’s stock is steadily depleted until it runs out and must be refilled or replaced. Another key difference is that continuous Flow oxygen is delivered by all oxygen cylinders. It varies by system with oxygen concentrators, as some of the more compact options use pulse-dose delivery.

Unlike oxygen cylinders, which can run out of oxygen, an oxygen concentrator can never run out of oxygen as long as there is air and electricity. An oxygen concentrator removes oxygen from the air itself, allowing for an unrestricted and convenient supply.

A leaking oxygen cylinder raises the prospect of a fire, as does oxygen-saturated air. If a fire starts under these conditions, it will be more difficult to put out because oxygen-induced fires burn hotter than many other types of fires. Pulse-dose oxygen concentrators produce oxygen only when it is required, reducing the risk of leaks and thus flammability.

Spelling out the Pros and Cons of these two machines might give a deeper perspective:

Oxygen Tanks

Oxygen tanks hold pressurized oxygen that can be continuously released at predetermined flow rates to provide medical-grade oxygen to the patient. These devices are normally mounted on a rolling apparatus that allows them to be rolled alongside the patient, such as a small trolley or cart.

Pros

1. There is no need for electricity. One of the most notable benefits of oxygen tanks is that they work by using the pressurized oxygen contained within them. Oxygen tanks can run without the use of a battery or an electrical outlet by releasing oxygen at one of many flow rate choices. This means that the tank will supply oxygen before the contents are exhausted.
2. There are no beeps or noisy noises associated with using oxygen tanks since they simply distribute their contents at a set pace. This makes them suitable for use in quiet settings such as movie theatres or libraries, as well as for napping or being around those who need to be left alone, such as infants.
3. Oxygen tanks are the most common form of personal oxygen, and as a result, they are frequently the most affordable, with the lowest initial cost of all the oxygen devices on the market. If the cost of the initial purchase is the most important factor, oxygen tanks are possibly the best option.

 Cons

1. The weight and portability of oxygen tanks are two of the most widely mentioned drawbacks. Although wheel-mounted cart systems, such as this one from Drive Medical, make rolling oxygen tanks simple and convenient, the tanks themselves are very large. Because of the device’s weight, raising the tank—for example, loading it into a truck or bringing it up a stairwell—can be difficult.
2. Oxygen tanks have a finite amount of oxygen in them, and if they’re empty, they have to be refilled or replaced with a new tank. Once the tank’s oxygen supply has been exhausted, it must be refilled or replaced with a new tank.
3. Since oxygen tanks must be refilled or replaced regularly, their low initial cost adds up over time, making the long-term cost higher.

Oxygen Concentrators

Oxygen concentrators use a filtering device to take ambient air from around the patient, compress it, and change it to medical-grade conditions, rather than the small amount of pressurized oxygen used for oxygen tanks. These devices come in a variety of sizes, including larger home-style versions as well as smaller compact models that are better for traveling and moving around.

Pros

1. Since oxygen concentrators are able to constantly draw in and handle air, unlike oxygen tanks, they can never run out of oxygen. Customers also mention this as one of the best features of oxygen concentrators.
2. Concentrators do not need a thick metal tank because they do not use pressurized oxygen. This means they’re a lot smaller and easier to transport than most oxygen tanks. For maximum convenience, many oxygen concentrators are built to be carried in a backpack or side case.
3. Oxygen concentrators come in a variety of sizes, types, and designs, each built to meet the needs of a particular user group. While most oxygen tanks are similar, concentrators offer a wider range of options to ensure you get exactly what you need.
4. Although oxygen tanks must be refilled or replaced on a regular basis, oxygen concentrators use ambient air and therefore do not need the same long-term maintenance as tanks. All of the costs of your concentrators will be included in your initial order.

Cons

1. Since oxygen concentrators do not use pressurized oxygen in a tank, they must rely on battery or electric power to filter air and deliver oxygen. The available charge in the battery must be considered, as it is for any battery-powered unit. If the battery is not charged, it will run out of power and the concentrator will shut down before it is recharged.
2.  Oxygen concentrators draw oxygen from the air, filtering and compressing it for the consumer. Due to the various components at work, this method can be very noisy, and this is the most common complaint among concentrator users. While many newer concentrator models have been developed to minimize noise to almost undetectable levels, there is always still some sound associated with their workings.
3. Oxygen concentrators are also very costly upfront due to the complicated processes at work. Despite the fact that, unlike oxygen tanks, this is a one-time purchase, many consumers will not be able to afford the high price tag all at once, even if it saves money in the long run.

Tips to Choose

1. A concentrator or a tank will suffice if you’re looking for a nice, reliable oxygen therapy system to use in your home, hospital space, or other facility. On a mobile cart, oxygen tanks can quickly drive up and down the hallways of a home or hospital. However, if you plan to use your unit for travel, errands, or other more active work, an oxygen concentrator is a much better option, since it is lighter in weight and comes with a variety of carrying bags and cases.
2. Oxygen tanks, in particular, come in a variety of sizes. Certain volumes may be better than others depending on the recommended oxygen flow rate and the length of time the tank will be used. Since oxygen concentrators have no fixed capacity, if you need a large amount of oxygen, a concentrator will save you money in the long run and will be more convenient for you because you won’t have to think about daily refills and tank replacements.
3. When choosing an oxygen therapy system, as with any product, budget is an important factor to consider. Many people are drawn to the lower initial cost of oxygen cylinders, but it’s important to note that investing in a concentrator would save you money in the long run by eliminating the need for refills and tank replacements.
4. Many oxygen tanks and concentrators provide transport accessories as an alternative. Wheel-mounted oxygen tanks, shoulder bags, and wheelchair attachments are examples. Depending on how you want to use your oxygen system, you may want to consider buying a device for holding and/or transporting it if you don’t already have one.
5. There are a few other things to remember that may or may not be provided with your oxygen tank or concentrator. Oxygen tubing, nasal cannulas, and oxygen masks are all essential for proper oxygen therapy delivery, so if you don’t already have them, you may be interested in a product that contains them all in one package.

That’s basically all that you need to make an empowered and informed choice.

With so many new COVID-19 cases being reported every day, it’s critical that we not only stay safe but also use the correct tools if we do become ill. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, please contact a doctor right away and get a COVID-19 test. This is especially crucial if you have a chronic disease like COPD or any other type of chronic disease, as this can make any coronavirus infection more severe. You may or may not need hospitalization, depending on your specific disease, risk factors, and symptoms, but only a skilled physician can make that decision.

Because the COVID-19 virus is a respiratory infection, owning a high-quality portable oxygen concentrator will help you recover faster if you are diagnosed with it. Cough, fever, shortness of breath, and exhaustion are all common COVID-19 symptoms, which can be problematic for people who have COPD. While COPD does not raise your chances of catching the coronavirus, it does raise the intensity of your symptoms and the likelihood of consequences. The correct portable oxygen concentrator machine is not only important for managing COPD symptoms, but it can also aid with your COVID-19 rehabilitation.

Infection with the coronavirus can be life-threatening if you already have low oxygen levels, coughing/wheezing, tiredness, or shortness of breath. One of the many strategies doctors are employing to improve recovery results for high-risk patients is concentrated oxygen treatment. While recuperating from COVID-19, your doctor may advise you to utilize a portable oxygen concentrator. Fortunately, there are several wonderful concentrator devices available online that are lightweight, simple to use, and offer a therapeutic quantity of oxygen wherever you go.

Oxygen therapy is important for many patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or a comparable illness. Portable oxygen concentrators are becoming more widespread these days, and they’re popular because of how simple they are to operate. Portable concentrators, unlike typical oxygen tanks, are tiny, lightweight, and do not require constant replacement. Nevertheless, although these units are more convenient, they are still not considered the standard of care in COPD oxygen therapy, and hence may not be covered by health insurance.

But it doesn’t mean you should stop using those big, inconvenient oxygen tanks! Attempting to get your insurance provider to cover a portable oxygen concentrator instead is always a good idea. It might turn out to be the best decision you’ve ever made. Even if you have COPD, these lightweight devices can provide a level of freedom and mobility that can significantly improve your quality of life.

Make sure you have all of your paperwork in order to maximize your chances of being approved for a portable oxygen concentrator (POC). Collect your doctor’s prescription for a POC, as well as your relevant medical information, such as the severity of your disease, pulmonary test results, and specifics on your oxygen therapy needs.

If your claim is originally refused, save all of the documents in case you need to file an appeal. Make your case if you can by detailing all of the ways that a portable oxygen concentrator would be required to maintain your quality of life, including any employment obligations you may have. The more information you provide the better.

While we sleep, our breathing pattern alters. Some of us breathe primarily through our lips, and most of us breathe deeper when we sleep, whilst others breathe shallower. If you utilize oxygen therapy at night, your nocturnal oxygen solution may differ from what you use during the day for supplemental oxygen.

For some individuals, pulse dosage portable concentrators can be an efficient nightly alternative; nevertheless, to assure optimal blood oxygen levels while sleeping, a continuous-flow oxygen source is often recommended. A nightly sleep study to monitor your blood oxygen levels and breathing behaviors may be used by your doctor to identify your individual needs. Your physician can calculate exactly what flow setting you’ll require while sleeping based on this study and other tests, allowing you to choose your nightly oxygen machine accordingly.

There are various portable solutions to choose from in instances when a large stationary concentrator is not possible or when travel necessitates a tiny and lightweight nocturnal oxygen solution. Certain features of some portable oxygen devices make them better suitable for overnight use.