Oxygen flow is typically measured using a flow meter, a relatively simple device. Here's how it works:
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The Device: An oxygen flow meter consists of a tube, usually made of clear plastic or glass, through which the oxygen gas passes.
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The Indicator: Inside the tube is an indicator, often a ball or float.
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The Process: As the oxygen flows through the tube, it pushes the indicator upward. The indicator rises until the pressure exerted by the upward flow of oxygen equals the force of gravity pulling the indicator down.
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The Scale: The flow meter has a numbered scale alongside the tube, calibrated in liters per minute (LPM). This scale allows you to read the flow rate of oxygen based on the indicator's position. The caregiver or user can then adjust a control valve to increase or decrease the flow of oxygen to the prescribed level.
In essence, you measure oxygen flow by observing the position of the indicator within the flow meter's tube, correlating it to the calibrated scale that displays the flow rate in liters per minute.
