Oxygen concentrator
Oxygen Concentrator
An Oxygen Concentrator (pronunciation: /ˈɒksɪdʒən kɒnsəntreɪtər/) is a medical device designed to deliver oxygen to those who require it. People may require an oxygen concentrator if they have a condition that causes or results in low levels of oxygen in their blood. These oxygen concentrators are used as a safer, less expensive, and more convenient alternative to tanks of compressed oxygen.
Etymology
The term "Oxygen Concentrator" comes from the device's function of concentrating the oxygen from a gas supply (typically ambient air) to supply an oxygen-enriched gas stream.
Function
An Oxygen Concentrator takes in air from the environment, removes other gases, and concentrates the oxygen level. This concentrated oxygen, typically at 90-95% purity, is then delivered to the patient. The device is powered by plugging it into an electrical outlet or by battery. If the concentrator is powered by an electric battery, that battery will need to be charged by plugging it into an outlet. Most concentrators also come equipped with a replaceable or washable filter.
Types
There are two types of Oxygen Concentrators:
- Stationary: These are heavy and mainly intended for home use. They can supply continuous flow oxygen and are plugged into an electrical outlet.
- Portable: These are smaller, lighter, and can run on battery power, making them more versatile for use outside the home. They can supply pulse dose oxygen, a burst of oxygen triggered when the user starts to take a breath.
Related Terms
- Oxygen Therapy: The administration of oxygen as a medical intervention, which can be for a variety of purposes in both chronic and acute patient care.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A type of obstructive lung disease characterized by long-term breathing problems and poor airflow. It is a common reason for the use of oxygen concentrators.
- Pulse Dose: A setting on some oxygen concentrators that delivers oxygen in pulses or 'boluses', instead of continuously.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Oxygen concentrator
- Wikipedia's article - Oxygen concentrator
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