Our veteran clinicians share their tips for success for oxygen therapy
Jimy works with CPAP and respiratory patients in Southern California and has been a Registered Respiratory Therapist for 10 years. While Jimy is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family and being outdoors, especially playing golf and fishing the local lakes near his home.
Q. My cannula keeps falling out of my nose, how do I get it to stay in? Do I need a different size or something?
A. A good tip to keep your oxygen cannula in place is to secure it with medical tape/surgical tape. One small strip on your right and left cheek will help secure it in place and prevent it from slipping out of your nose. Ear loops are another option that can help keep your cannula from moving around.
Cannulas also have a slider adjustment tool and you can tighten upward, this will give you a tighter feel against your face, but be careful as you do not want to have the cannula too tight or too loose.
Lastly you don't necessarily need to change the size of cannula as they come in various sizes (infant, pediatric, and adult) pick the size that best describes your age category. If you are still having difficulties with securing your nasal cannula, please call your local Apria office and a respiratory therapist can provide additional assistance.
Q. How do I stop the long oxygen tubing from twisting up or bending frequently and preventing air flow?
A. Using long oxygen tubing (25-50ft) can be challenging in terms of the tubing twisting and bending frequently. A good way to keep it twist- and bend-free is to use an oxygen swivel connector. The connector will allow your oxygen tubing to have free range of motion as you move around without kinking or bending.
Another good tip is to roll up any excess oxygen tubing that is not needed. This will prevent any unwanted excess tubing from getting kinked or twisted. Please ask your local Apria office for assistance in providing you an oxygen swivel connector.
Q. Is there such a thing as getting too much oxygen? I use my oxygen when I’m resting and not really in need, but use it anyways.
A. As the saying goes "Too much of a good thing..."
Having excess amounts of oxygen can be harmful to your body. Excess oxygen can lead to oxygen toxicity. Your physician has prescribed just the right amount to treat your condition. This is why it's really important to follow your physician's orders regarding your oxygen therapy. If you are unsure what that prescription is, reach out to your provider. Different conditions require different therapies.
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