Overview

Oxygen is usually delivered by oxygen concentrators or cylinders. Choice of delivery system depends on cost and the number of hours per day oxygen is needed.

Long-term oxygen therapy is usually delivered by oxygen concentrators; large oxygen cylinders may be used as backup for possible electricity supply failure or if supply of electricity is too unreliable for oxygen concentrator use. Portable oxygen concentrators and small oxygen cylinders may be suitable for ambulatory use. Oxygen conservation devices may be used to increase life of oxygen cylinders.

Low-flow devices are usually used for domiciliary oxygen therapy. Standard nasal cannula is usually used; however, choice of device depends on the patient’s clinical condition, partial pressure of oxygen (PaO₂), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO₂), comfort, as well as funding and equipment available.