Ask-Apria-header

Our veteran clinicians share their tips for success for oxygen therapy

ASK APRIA

Today's Clinician

profile image

Collyn Pullam

Collyn Pullam is a Registered Respiratory Therapist with 29 years of experience and has worked for Apria for a total of 15 years. She loves staying active outdoors, walking, hiking, tennis, swimming, and both water and snow skiing. She also enjoys traveling to new places, reading, and painting. Most of all, she cherishes time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren.

RESPIRATORY

Q. How many hours a day should I be using my prescribed oxygen? 

 

A. The number of hours depends on your specific prescription. You need to use your oxygen exactly as your doctor prescribes. Do not increase or decrease the flow or usage time without medical direction. We can provide you with your prescription orders, so you are aware of what has been ordered by your physician.

Q. What should I do if my oxygen tubing becomes kinked or disconnected during the night?

 

A. A Kinked or disconnected tube can interrupt oxygen delivery, so correcting it promptly is important.

  • If your tubing kinks, straighten the tubing and check for any twists that block flow. Kinks commonly occur from movement during sleep or from long tubing lengths.

  • Ensure the tubing lies flat, not caught under bedding or furniture.

  • Consider using a swivel connector which reduces twisting and tension on the line.

  • If your tubing disconnects during the night, reconnect the tubing securely to the cannula and concentrator outlet. If your cannula tends to fall out while sleeping, use soft medical tape or cannula-holding devices that can help keep it in place, and securing tubing along the bedframe can prevent tugging during sleep.

  • If you are unsure whether oxygen is flowing, check the flowmeter or feel for airflow at the cannula.

  • If you have not changed your tubing in the last 3–6 months, you should consider changing the tubing now.

Q. Is it normal to get nosebleeds while using oxygen? 

 

A. Yes, nosebleeds are a common side effect as Oxygen can dry out your nasal passages. Nosebleeds are especially common in dry climates, winter indoor heating, or with higher oxygen flows.

  • If you are getting nosebleeds, you can try normal saline spray or water-based gel to moisturize the inside of the nose. Do not use oil-based products.

  • You can also talk to your doctor about sending an order for a humidifier bottle to be added to your oxygen system or use a room humidifier to keep nasal tissues moist (use only distilled water).

Do you have a question for our Respiratory Therapists to be answered in a future email?

We want to hear from you!

AD-Sleep-Opt-in-Pop-Up (12-25-Rove6-NY)v1 (1)