Oxygen Use Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
1. Post these signs in view for all to see. They should be near the
entryway to the home and also at the door of the person’s home.
The no smoking policy must be enforced.
2. Use a non-petroleum lubricant. For example Surgilube or KY Jelly on
the client’s lips and outer skin of the nose for comfort.
3. Lay the oxygen cylinder flat and secure it to a fixed object. The
cylinder should be in the shade, away from the sun or other heat
source.
4. Bed controls, phone, or TV, these devices can be used while the
patient is using oxygen therapy
5. Use 100% cotton bed linens and clothing. Cotton linens and clothing
do not create sparks and static electricity.
6. When you handle the oxygen cylinder, keep your hands dry.
7. Use a comb. A comb does not produce static electricity.
8. Smoke detector. Make sure there is a smoke detector in the room
where the oxygen is being used and one outside the room.
Don’ts
1. Use petroleum-based products like Vaseline, Chapstick, Blistex on
the client’s lips.
2. Change the equipment oxygen setting. Too much or too little oxygen
can cause the client to change their breathing pattern, heart rate
and/or speech patterns. Call your supervisor immediately if you
notice any of these signs.
3. Use woolen or nylon blankets or clothing. They could create sparks
from static electricity.
4. Use any other electrical appliance. Appliances such as heating pads,
electric razors, curling irons, heaters and hair dryers can cause a fire
hazard. Keep them at least 10 feet away from the oxygen system.
5. Remove plugs while the oxygen is being used. They can create a
spark of electricity and cause an explosion.
6. Use oily hands or gloves to handle the oxygen tank. The oil can
cause a fire.
7. Brush your client’s hair. A hairbrush can create static electricity.
Activities for Daily Living Part Two: Lesson 4