c. Obtain Equipment.
(1) Flow meter. Oxygen flows through the pipeline at a low pressure,
usually 50-60 pounds per square inch. A flow meter (figure 3-13) must be attached to
the wall outlet to control the flow of oxygen to the patient.
Figure 3-13. Flow meters for wall oxygen setups.
(2) Humidifier. The humidifier prevents drying and irritation of the patient's
mucous membranes by adding moisture to the oxygen being inhaled.
Distilled water. One liter of distilled water will be needed for the
(3)
humidifier.
(4) Delivery device. Obtain the packaged nasal prongs or face mask as per
physician's order or supervisor's directive.
d. Fill Humidifier Bottle. Fill the humidifier bottle to the level indicated
(about 2/3 full) with distilled water. Refill as necessary to maintain the water level above
the minimal level.
e. Attach Humidifier to Flow Meter. Remove the oxygen tube connector from
the flow meter by turning the wing nut. Attach the wing nut on the humidifier to the flow
meter outlet; then secure the wing nut to the flow meter.
f. Attach Flow Meter to Wall Unit. Close or turn the flow-adjusting valve of the
flow meter to the "off" position. (Closing or turning the flow adjusting valve/dial to the
"off" position will prevent damage to the gauge caused by a sudden influx of oxygen
under pressure.) Insert the flow meter adapter into the opening of the oxygen outlet
(figure 3-14) and press until a firm connection is made. You will hear a small "hiss"
when the connection has been made.
MD0542
3-14