Portable Oxygen

My Patient Guide

Guiding you every step of the way.

Portable oxygen tanks contain pure oxygen, which is compressed to more than 2,000 pounds per square inch. This allows more oxygen to be carried in the tank. The size of the tank determines the volume of gas contained. You then can estimate how long that tank will last at a prescribed liter flow. Portable tanks are heavy and can be carried in a cart. Smaller tanks are lighter, but do not last as long. While steel tanks are still used, most home care patients prefer lighter-weight aluminum tanks. A device called a regulator is attached to the tank, which reduces the pressure of the oxygen and lets it out of the tank at a pressure that is safe. The regulator also allows the user to adjust the flow to the prescribed liter flow. Filling oxygen tanks is a complex and regulated process, so, in general, once a tank is empty, it must be returned to the oxygen supplier to be refilled. An E-tank will last about 5 hours when used at a flow of 2 liters per minute. Smaller tanks are available, but do not last as long. Portable oxygen tanks are the most commonly used method of providing oxygen outside the home.

DME / Oxygen 101

DME / Oxygen

Choose a Destination... Who Qualifies for Oxygen? Choosing a Provider Liquid Oxygen Oxygen Concentrators Portable Oxygen Commonly Used Systems Pros and Cons Is Home O2 Safe? Conserving Devices MAIN PAGE ....................................................

DME / Oxygen

Choose a Destination... Who Qualifies for Oxygen? Choosing a Provider Liquid Oxygen Oxygen Concentrators Portable Oxygen Commonly Used Systems Pros and Cons Is Home O2 Safe? Conserving Devices MAIN PAGE ....................................................

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