How to Use Oxygen Concentrator with Nasal Cannula
- Riya Barman
- 8 hours ago
- 4 min read
A Step-by-Step Guide by Healthy Jeena Sikho
Oxygen therapy at home is essential for patients with respiratory conditions, post-COVID recovery, or chronic lung diseases. One of the most common methods of delivering oxygen is through a nasal cannula, which is a soft tube that fits gently into the nostrils.
At Healthy Jeena Sikho, we guide families and caregivers on the correct usage of oxygen concentrators with nasal cannula or mask, ensuring safety, comfort, and effective therapy.
What is a Nasal Cannula?
A nasal cannula is a lightweight, flexible tube that delivers oxygen directly into the nostrils. It is commonly used because it is:
Comfortable for long-term use
Allows patients to talk, eat, and drink while receiving oxygen
Suitable for low to moderate oxygen flow (1–5 liters per minute)
Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Oxygen Concentrator with a Nasal Cannula
Before connecting the nasal cannula, ensure the oxygen concentrator is ready:
Place the concentrator in a well-ventilated area, at least 1 foot away from walls or curtains.
Plug the concentrator into a stable power source. For power backup, a pure sine wave inverter can be used if necessary.
Turn the machine on and allow it to warm up (usually 2–5 minutes).
Check the oxygen flow rate prescribed by your doctor.
2. Attaching the Nasal Cannula
Take the nasal cannula and connect it securely to the oxygen outlet on the concentrator.
Ensure the prongs point downward to fit comfortably in the nostrils.
Avoid sharp bends or kinks in the tubing, as this can reduce oxygen flow.
3. Positioning the Cannula Correctly
Insert the prongs gently into your nostrils.
Loop the tubing over your ears and adjust the sliding clip under your chin to secure it.
Ensure the cannula is snug but not tight. It should not cause discomfort or leave red marks.
4. Turning On Oxygen Flow
Set the oxygen flow to the rate prescribed by your doctor (commonly 1–5 LPM for home therapy).
Check the flow meter on the concentrator to confirm the correct flow.
Sit in a comfortable position and breathe normally through your nose.
5. Monitoring Comfort and Safety
Make sure the tubing is not twisted and the concentrator is on a flat, stable surface.
Check for skin irritation behind the ears or inside nostrils.
Keep the concentrator away from flammable items. Oxygen supports combustion.
Never adjust the flow rate without consulting your doctor.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Clean the cannula every few days with mild soap and water. Replace it every 2–4 weeks or sooner if it becomes stiff or dirty.
Wipe the concentrator with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water inside the machine.
Check filters regularly. Healthy Jeena Sikho’s oxygen concentrators, like Philips EverFlo and Medoxy, have easy-to-maintain filters.
Ensure tubing is free from dust, moisture, or kinks.
7. Tips for Comfortable Oxygen Therapy
Avoid sleeping with the tubing under your neck; loop it over your shoulders instead.
Drink plenty of water to keep nasal passages moist.
Use a humidifier attachment if prescribed for dry nasal passages.
For mobility, a portable oxygen concentrator can be used with nasal cannula during short periods outside the home.
8. When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice:
Shortness of breath despite oxygen therapy
Skin irritation, nosebleeds, or nasal dryness
Alarms from the oxygen concentrator (low oxygen or machine fault)
Chest pain, dizziness, or unusual fatigue
At Healthy Jeena Sikho, we provide:
Easy-to-use home oxygen concentrators
Live setup guidance and demonstration
Regular maintenance and support
Safety tips for nasal cannula usage and power backup solutions
Our goal is to ensure that home oxygen therapy is safe, effective, and stress-free for both patients and caregivers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I use an oxygen concentrator with a nasal cannula at home?
To use an oxygen concentrator with a nasal cannula, place the machine in a ventilated area, connect the cannula to the oxygen outlet, set the prescribed flow rate, insert the prongs gently into the nostrils, and breathe normally through the nose. Always follow the doctor’s instructions.
2. What should be the correct oxygen flow rate with a nasal cannula?
The oxygen flow rate is usually between 1 to 5 liters per minute, depending on the doctor’s prescription. Never increase or decrease the flow rate on your own, as incorrect oxygen levels can be harmful.
3. Can I sleep while using an oxygen concentrator with a nasal cannula?
Yes, most patients can safely sleep while using a nasal cannula. Ensure the tubing is not twisted, the concentrator is placed securely, and the flow rate is set correctly. For comfort, avoid placing the tube under the neck.
4. How often should a nasal cannula be cleaned or replaced?
The nasal cannula should be cleaned every few days using mild soap and water. It is generally recommended to replace the cannula every 2–4 weeks, or earlier if it becomes dirty, stiff, or uncomfortable.
5. Is it normal to feel dryness in the nose while using oxygen?
Yes, nasal dryness is common during oxygen therapy. If prescribed by the doctor, a humidifier bottle with distilled water can help reduce dryness. Drinking enough fluids also helps keep nasal passages moist.
6. Can I talk, eat, or drink while using a nasal cannula?
Yes. One of the advantages of a nasal cannula is that it allows patients to talk, eat, and drink comfortably while receiving oxygen therapy.
7. What should I do if the oxygen concentrator alarm starts beeping?
If the alarm sounds, check for blocked tubing, dirty filters, or poor ventilation around the machine. If the alarm continues, stop using the concentrator and contact Healthy Jeena Sikho for professional support.
8. Can elderly patients safely use a nasal cannula at home?
Yes, nasal cannulas are commonly used by elderly patients because they are comfortable and easy to manage. Caregivers should ensure proper placement, regular cleaning, and correct flow settings.
Conclusion
Using an oxygen concentrator with a nasal cannula is safe and comfortable when done correctly. Proper setup, flow monitoring, and regular cleaning are key to effective oxygen therapy. With guidance from Healthy Jeena Sikho, patients can enjoy a healthy, worry-free home oxygen experience.
💚 Healthy Jeena Sikho – Trusted Home Oxygen Care, Right at Your Home
Comments