Nasal oxygen is delivered through two small prongs that are inserted into your nostrils. It provides supplemental oxygen to help you breathe easier.
Here's how to use nasal oxygen:
- Check Your Supply: Make sure you have enough oxygen in your tank or concentrator.
- Attach the Tubing: Connect the tubing from the oxygen source to the nasal cannula.
- Set Your Flow Rate: Adjust the flow rate of oxygen according to your doctor's instructions.
- Put the Cannula in Your Nose: Gently insert the prongs of the nasal cannula into your nostrils.
- Keep Your Equipment Clean: Regularly clean the nasal cannula and tubing to prevent infections.
- Take Care of Yourself: Follow your doctor's instructions and report any problems or discomfort.
Note: If you are using nasal oxygen, it's important to keep the cannula in place and avoid moving it around. If you need to remove the cannula, make sure to do so in a way that does not cause any leaks or spills of oxygen.
Examples:
- High-flow nasal cannula: This type of nasal cannula delivers warm, humidified oxygen at a high flow rate.
- Standard nasal cannula: This type of nasal cannula delivers oxygen at a lower flow rate.
Practical Insights:
- Nasal oxygen can be used for a variety of reasons, including respiratory problems, low blood oxygen levels, and during surgery.
- You may experience some dryness in your nose when using nasal oxygen. If this happens, you can try using a humidifier or nasal spray to help keep your nasal passages moist.
- If you are using nasal oxygen, it's important to keep the cannula in place and avoid moving it around.
- Avoid smoking or being around smoke when using nasal oxygen.
- Keep the cannula away from any open flames or heat sources.
