Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Oxygen Concentrator
Technical/Medical Term: Oxygen concentrator, single delivery port, capable of delivering 85 percent or greater oxygen concentration at the prescribed flow rate (HCPCS Code: E1390)

Summary

An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that provides supplemental oxygen to individuals with respiratory conditions. It works by extracting oxygen from ambient air and delivering it at high concentrations to the patient through a single delivery port.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems Addressed

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Emphysema
• Pulmonary Fibrosis
• Severe Asthma
• Other conditions leading to low blood oxygen levels

Goals or Expected Outcomes

• Increase oxygen levels in the blood
• Reduce symptoms of breathlessness
• Improve quality of life
• Enhance physical and mental functionality

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions Warranting the Procedure

• Chronic hypoxemia (low blood oxygen)
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty completing daily activities due to lack of oxygen

Patient Criteria

• Physician-prescribed need for supplemental oxygen therapy
• Ongoing assessment indicating benefits from concentrated oxygen delivery

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required
• Assessment of lung function (e.g., pulse oximetry, arterial blood gas tests)

Diagnostic Tests or Assessments

• Blood oxygen level measurement
• Evaluation of lung capacity

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation

1. Initial Consultation: A healthcare provider evaluates the patient's need for supplemental oxygen.
2. Prescription and Setup: The oxygen concentrator is prescribed and set up by a respiratory therapist or medical equipment provider.
3. Instruction: The patient and caregivers receive training on operating the device.
4. Use: The patient uses the device at home or any required setting by attaching a nasal cannula or oxygen mask to the concentrator’s delivery port.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used

• Oxygen concentrator machine
• Nasal cannula or oxygen mask
• Humidifier bottle (if prescribed)

Anesthesia or Sedation Details

• None required for the use of the oxygen concentrator

Duration

• Continuous use as prescribed, often 24/7

Setting

• Typically used at home, but can also be utilized in healthcare facilities

Personnel

• Respiratory therapists
• Medical equipment providers
• Physicians

Risks and Complications

Common Risks

• Dry or bloody nose
• Skin irritation from the nasal cannula

Rare Risks

• Oxygen toxicity (rare and typically from misuse)
• Equipment malfunction

Possible Complications and their Management

• Regular maintenance and check-ups are essential to ensure the device functions properly.

Benefits

• Improved oxygen levels immediately upon use
• Alleviation of symptoms like breathlessness
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care and Instructions

• Regular monitoring of device function
• Routine follow-up appointments to assess oxygen therapy effectiveness

Expected Recovery Time

• Not applicable as it is used for ongoing therapy

Restrictions or Follow-up

• Ensure the device is used as prescribed
• Regular check-ups to adjust oxygen levels

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options

• Compressed oxygen cylinders
• Liquid oxygen systems
• Portable oxygen concentrators

Pros and Cons of Alternatives

• Compressed Oxygen Cylinders: Limited portability, but no electricity required.
• Liquid Oxygen Systems: More compact but can be expensive.
• Portable Oxygen Concentrators: More mobility but generally less oxygen output.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure

• The patient might feel a cool sensation in the nostrils from the oxygen flow.
• Generally, no pain involved in using the device.

After the Procedure

• Possible dryness in the nasal passages or mild discomfort, manageable with humidification.
• Patients may need to adjust to sleeping with the device in use.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures

• Usage of water-based lubricants for nasal discomfort
• Humidifiers to add moisture to the oxygen