Any tips on the use of supplemental oxygen
I've been getting a lot conflicting ideas and suggestions about the use of supplemental oxygen.
Some say it shouldn't be used at more than 3 l/minute. Others say it's okay to go up to 7. Some say it should be used only if o2 sat. is below 88. Others don't factor in o2 at all.
Can anyone out there in the community provide guidance?
HI! I realize you probably know we are not allowed to give medical advise. As for the use of supplement O2 that is usually determined by your Doctor. Here in the USA we are not able to get supplemental O2 without a prescription. If a company is willing to sell someone even a portable unit, then beware of that company. With that I can tell you I have been on supplemental O2, 2L/min but at times when needed and directed by medical staff in ER / hospital etc... then it has been at 4 litres for that time frame. My father started his COPD journey at 2 Litres and over time ended up on 4 litres for a few years and finally at 5 when he passed. Then I have seen some on this forum mention even higher numbers for their use. It truly depends on each person as an individual, there is not right or wrong answer until you are evaluated by usually a Lung Specialist (Pulmonologist). Hope that helps a little.
Good luck!
Hi.
I see you received a response from above. And I have to say I agree with what she said 100%. In the hospital setting, I am the one who does the oxygen qualification test -- If you have oxygen, I am sure that you have had this done. Right? During this test, it is my job to determine what liter flow is ideal for my patient. Do you need oxygen at rest? How much? Do you need oxygen while you are walking? How much? Do you need oxygen while sleeping? How much? And this information is reported to your doctor and your home oxygen supplier. So, if you want specifics as to what liter flow is best for you, the doctor who ordered the oxygen for you should have the correct answer for you. Your ordering doctor should be able to let you know when you need to wear your oxygen and what liter flow to set it at. What do you think? John. community moderator. Very interesting John. I have never had anyone ask me those questions. Not sure what to do next. I’m in hospice at home so don’t have easy access to someone like you.
Hi bob - Your concerns are not only valid, but quite real and practical too, Since our good community member, , and my good colleague, , have already responded (and I concur), I too have something to contribute.
Based on what you've shared with us here, this is not as puzzling as the folks who you've gotten information from make it appear. I am sorry for the confusion they have caused.
There is a definitive, methodical way to approach what your specific oxygen requirements are. John laid out some of that with his battery of questions. These are the questions that are answered, with and for the patient, during the evaluation of the specific level of disease.
Recognizing that you are in hospice care now, there is still an established approach and evaluation method that can be provided to you at home. Once done, your specific oxygen requirements should be made abundantly clear.
What do you think?
Leon L (author/moderator)
- Thank you. So it seems I should speak with my hospice nurse to obtain this “established approach and evaluation method.” Is that correct? Hi bob - yes - as a patient at home in Hospice, that would be the first place to start. The nurse should be able to address all concerns and get the process started.
You may be in a position where the evaluation will not be necessary. It may be the doctor prescribes oxygen and monitors you accordingly.
It all will depend on your particular and specific level of disease.
It's your medical team that will provide you with the most suitable care moving forward.
Good luck and please, if you don't mind, keep us apprised of your progress. We are all here for you!
Warm regards,
Leon L (author/moderator)
