Our veteran clinicians share their tips for success for oxygen therapy
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Today's Clinician
Heather Ellis
Heather has been a Registered Respiratory Therapist since 2016 and serves Apria’s respiratory patients in South Dakota. With a strong background in critical care, she’s passionate about patient education and helping individuals confidently manage their respiratory needs. She’s currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Health Science and stays up to date on evolving medical practices to better support her patients.
RESPIRATORY
Q. I need to refill my oxygen; how do I do that?
A. Usually, most patients will call their local branch and exchange oxygen tanks. If you have a home-fill system, then you would use that to refill the oxygen tanks.
Q. Can I turn off my oxygen by just unplugging the power strip? Do I need to power the machine down first?
A. I would not suggest powering down any device by simply unplugging it. I know it may be an extra step, but it is a quick push of a button to power it down. It will also reduce the risk of tripping the unit and causing unnecessary damage.
Q. Can I shower with my oxygen in my nose?
A. Yes, you can shower with oxygen in your nose, but it's important to take precautions to ensure safety and comfort. Keep the oxygen concentrator away from moisture, adjust the showerhead to a low, well-spread stream, and consider using a continuous flow setting to help keep water out of your nasal passages.
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