Useful DOs and DON’Ts
Do not smoke whilst receiving oxygen therapy. You are in danger
of severe burns/smoke inhalation which can be fatal.
Do not allow others to smoke in the same room while you are
using the oxygen.
Do not leave your concentrator running when it is not in use.
Do not leave your nasal prongs on the bed or chair with the
oxygen running as there may be a build-up of gas which could be
dangerous.
Do not use flammable products near your oxygen, or paraffin
based cream on your face.
Do allow the local fire service to visit your home if you have an
oxygen concentrator.
Do inform your electricity supplier that you are using an oxygen
concentrator. You will be put on a priority list for reconnection in
the event of a power failure.*
Do inform your home insurance company. This should not affect
your premium.
Do have a smoke alarm in your home.
*the cost of electricity use for your machine will be reimbursed.
Ask your supplier for details of this.
If you have any other questions about home oxygen therapy or
your treatment in general, please contact the respiratory nurse
specialists on Respiratory Team - 0161 922 6412
Other useful numbers
British Lung Foundation helpline 03000-030555
Breathe Easy Northwest 0151 224 7776
Asthma UK 08457 010203
Air Liquide Patient No: 0808 143 9992
Customer Care Team (PALS) 0161 922 4466
Home Oxygen Therapy
A patient’s guide
Author: Rebecca Towns
Respiratory Nurse Specialist
E&CC Division
Frequently asked questions
Will I become dependent on oxygen?
No. Think of it as a vitamin supplement for the lungs and body. When
you are at home, awake or asleep, you should use it. However, if you
want to go out or have a break away from home there is no need to
have oxygen all the time. You will not become dependent or ‘hooked’
on oxygen and it will never lose its useful effects.
Why do I need oxygen?
You are being discharged from hospital still requiring some oxygen.
This may just be because you are still recovering from an
infection/illness etc. and may only be needed short term. You will be
seen at home 4-6 weeks after discharge from hospital to determine if
you still require oxygen. You may not and it can be taken away,
however if you do still require it, the respiratory specialist team will
assess your requirements and you will be seen in clinics and/or home
for follow ups.
Can I still go on holiday?
We can provide a holiday order supply of oxygen, outside of the UK
however there may be a cost implication. Please give 4-6 weeks’ notice
to the respiratory team.
Are there any problems with oxygen therapy?
No. In some patients too much oxygen can be harmful, but you will
have been carefully assessed as to how much your body requires in
the hospital. You must not use your oxygen close to a fire, naked flame
If you have a visual impairment this leaflet can be
made available in bigger print on audiotape. If you
require
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Patient Information Centre on: 0161 922 5332
Will I have to be treated with oxygen for ever and how long until I
notice the benefits?
Every patient is different and it is impossible to predict whether or not
you will always need oxygen therapy. Sometimes it is just when you
have a worsening of your symptoms. Usually, once the decision has
been made that you will benefit from oxygen it can mean lifelong
treatment. This decision is made within the oxygen assessment clinic.
It is really important you attend for review regularly. Many patients
notice the benefits from oxygen within a few weeks but it can take
months before you will notice a general improvement in your health.
How does oxygen work?
Oxygen is needed for all the organs of the body to function properly. If
our air passages or lungs are damaged by a chronic lung disease the
lungs cannot get enough oxygen into the blood and this puts a strain
on the heart. By breathing in extra oxygen we can reduce this strain on
both the lungs and the heart, and eventually it can also help improve
general well-being.
How long should I be on my oxygen during the day?
You will not need to use your oxygen 24 hours a day unless you feel
very uncomfortable without it. Most people use it during activity and
you should be able to continue your daily activities whilst on oxygen. A
general guide is 15-16 hours in a 24 hour period on oxygen.
Do Not alter your oxygen amount yourself. With exception of patients
on variable flow and have been advised how to do this. You have been
prescribed the right amount for your condition and changing this can be
very dangerous. Contact the respiratory team if you are struggling with
anything.
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