Oxygen Concentrator

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that provides supplemental oxygen to individuals with respiratory conditions or those who need extra oxygen to maintain adequate blood oxygen levels. It works by concentrating oxygen from the surrounding air, filtering out nitrogen, and delivering a higher concentration of oxygen to the patient.

Key Features:

  • Air filtration: The concentrator draws in ambient air and filters out nitrogen, providing a higher concentration of oxygen (usually between 87% to 95%) compared to the 21% in ambient air.
  • Electrical power: Unlike oxygen tanks that require refills, oxygen concentrator run on electricity, making them a more continuous and cost-effective source of oxygen in the long run.
  • Portable or stationary: Oxygen concentrator come in both stationary (larger units for home use) and portable (smaller, lighter units) versions, depending on the patient’s needs.
  • Flow rate: They deliver oxygen at a prescribed flow rate, typically ranging from 0.5 to 10 liters per minute (LPM), which can be adjusted based on the doctor’s recommendations.

Types of Oxygen Concentrator:

  1. Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POCs): These are smaller, lightweight devices designed for use outside the home, often with battery-powered options for on-the-go use. They’re ideal for active individuals.
  2. Stationary Oxygen Concentrator: Larger units designed for home use that provide continuous oxygen delivery and do not require the user to carry them around.

How It Works:

  • The concentrator works by pulling air through a filter to remove dust and other particles.
  • The purified air is then processed through a series of sieves that separate nitrogen from oxygen.
  • The filtered, concentrated oxygen is delivered through a nasal cannula or face mask to the patient.

Uses:

  • Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Oxygen concentrator are used by patients with conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, or asthma who require supplemental oxygen.
  • Post-surgical recovery: It may be prescribed for patients recovering from surgery to help with breathing and recovery.
  • Emergency situations: In some cases, oxygen concentrator are used in hospitals or clinics for patients who need immediate respiratory support.