Whether you work in a hospital, an emergency care setting like the ambulance service, or you run a care home, you will likely need access to medical oxygen administration equipment.
There are different types of oxygen administration systems depending on whether they are intended for long-term continuing care or for use in a medical emergency. Either way, medical oxygen equipment needs to be meticulously maintained and replaced at regular intervals.
Those who are receiving home oxygen therapy need to have it prescribed by their doctor in the UK. As this is provided on the NHS as treatment for certain conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis and severe long-term asthma, your healthcare professionals will tell you how often to change your equipment.
How often does medical oxygen equipment need replacing?
Different components of medical oxygen equipment need to be replaced at different times. Masks for administering oxygen, for example, will need to be replaced after being used on a patient.
Nasal tubes, meanwhile, which are used to deliver oxygen for those breathing the gas long-term, are usually replaced every four weeks. Although the guidance states you can replace these more frequently if necessary.
Meanwhile, oxygen cylinders need to be replaced when their level reaches between 200 and 500 psi (or 15 to 40 bar depending on how the pressure in your cylinders is measured). This ensures that you never fully run out of oxygen to administer to patients.
You will also need to replace a medical oxygen cylinder if it shows any sign of damage. This might include dents, rust or any indication there is any corrosion. If you notice any damage to the cylinder, replace it immediately as it may not be safe to use.
Another indicator that you may need to replace your oxygen cylinder is if the rate at which the gas flows out of it changes without you having made an adjustment to the flow rate manually. This might be a sign that a component in your equipment is not working as it should.
The general rule when it comes to oxygen administration equipment is that it is better to err on the side of caution so if you have any doubts about the condition of your cylinders or another part of the system, it is best to get it checked by a maintenance professional if appropriate, or simply to replace it.
When should I replace oxygen administration equipment that isn’t used regularly?
If you have a portable oxygen administration set that you keep onsite, such as at a care home or healthcare facility, that is not in regular use but that is reserved for emergencies, you need to ensure that it is well maintained and in good working order.
You will need to have your equipment serviced, usually once a year but depending on the equipment this might be more frequent. There should be a sticker indicating when your oxygen administration set is next due for a service.
Some components of the system will have an expiration date, so keep an eye on these and replace them as necessary.