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When it comes to oxygen therapy, having a clear understanding of your prescription is essential to managing your health effectively. Oxygen therapy is not one-size-fits-all; it’s tailored to meet your specific medical needs and lifestyle. By asking the right questions about your supplemental oxygen prescription, you ensure that your treatment is both safe and optimal for your well-being. Whether you’re new to oxygen therapy or have been using it for a while, clarifying the details of your prescription can help prevent issues and improve your overall experience.

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In this article, we will go over 11 important questions you should ask your doctor regarding your oxygen prescription to get the most out of your oxygen therapy.

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1. Why Do I Need Oxygen Therapy?

Supplemental oxygen is used for a variety of health conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, congestive heart failure, interstitial lung disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and many more. While many of these conditions generally require short-term oxygen use, some situations require long-term use.

It is essential that you understand why you need oxygen therapy, and you should feel free to ask your doctor to explain the exact reason. You may not understand the entire medical explanation, but you gain more confidence over your treatment plan once you have established why you need oxygen therapy in the first place.

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2. What Does Supplemental Oxygen Do for Me?

While the air we breathe naturally contains 21% oxygen, there are times when we may require more than 21% oxygen. For example, with COPD, the structure of the lungs change in response to persistent inflammation, which can eventually affect the lung’s ability to draw oxygen from ordinary air. In this case, the lungs are unable to function with only the normal oxygen in the air, which creates the need to use supplemental oxygen beyond what is found in normal ambient air. Therefore, supplemental oxygen is a way to overcome the dysfunction of the diseased lung so the body can continue to obtain the oxygen needed to survive.

Your condition may be different, so be sure to ask your doctor what role supplemental oxygen plays in regards to your oxygen prescription.

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3. How, When, and What Device Should I Use Oxygen?

There are several methods for delivering supplemental oxygen, including a nasal cannula, a simple mask, or through a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine for those with specific conditions. Understanding how to use oxygen properly is crucial, as you may need different delivery methods depending on your needs and activities.

The type of oxygen device you should use depends on your lifestyle and requirements. Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are ideal for active individuals who need to move around, as they provide a lightweight and convenient option for mobility. On the other hand, home oxygen concentrators (HOCs) are stationary and best for home use, offering continuous oxygen flow to meet the needs of those requiring a steady supply.

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In addition to the device, your oxygen prescription will specify a liter flow rate, which measures how much oxygen is delivered per minute (LPM). While many people are prescribed a baseline flow rate of 2 LPM, some may need higher flows depending on their condition and activity levels.

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It’s also important to clarify with your doctor when you should be using your oxygen. Some individuals only need supplemental oxygen during physical activity or while exercising, while others may require oxygen even while at rest. Understanding when and how to use your oxygen will ensure that you’re using it correctly and effectively for your health.

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4. How Long Do I Need to Use Supplemental Oxygen?

Just because you are prescribed supplemental oxygen does not necessarily mean you will be using it for a long time. Some people may only have a limited prescription until the condition they are facing subsides. Others have a more chronic issue that may require long-term supplemental oxygen. Ask your doctor what the expected timeline is so you can prepare.

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5. What Should I Do If I Feel Great and Do Not Think I Need Supplemental Oxygen Anymore?

Just like any other medication, it is essential to keep using it until you have spoken to your doctor about the change in your condition. It might be the case that your doctor will let you know you can stop early, but there might be risks if you stop yourself. It is always best to continue your treatment plan as ordered until you have asked your doctor.

 

6. Is There Anything I Should Avoid While I Am Prescribed Oxygen?

Unlike most medications, there are not many risks to using oxygen with other medicines. However, you should always avoid smoking and any fire while using oxygen because of its role in creating fire. Your doctor may have additional guidelines, so be sure to ask about this also.

 

7. Is There Any Risk in Using Oxygen?

Aside from the fire risk, using extremely high levels of oxygen is also a risk, although this level is rarely seen outside of a hospital or ambulance. That said, using even slightly higher levels of oxygen over time can cause damage to the lungs and also alter the drive to breathe in patients with COPD. Therefore, it is important to clarify these and other potential risks regarding your oxygen prescription with your doctor.

 

8. Will I Be Able to Travel with Oxygen?

The quick answer to this question is yes; however, your doctor will be able to provide specific instructions regarding your oxygen needs, whether you are traveling by air, water, or land. Your ability to travel safely depends a lot on the severity of your disease, which your doctor will be able to discern through adequate testing.

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9. What Should I Do If My Oxygen Tank Runs Out Unexpectedly?

Whether you forget to turn off the oxygen tank or your oxygen concentrator runs out of batteries, you might run into a situation where your oxygen supply is suddenly cut short. While you might feel anxious while it is happening, your doctor can help formulate a contingency plan with you in case you run out unexpectedly. This might include a trip to the emergency room, but some cases might be resolved in urgent care.

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10. Will I Need Any Tests with My Oxygen Prescription?

Your doctor will most likely order two primary tests to evaluate your present and ongoing needs for supplemental oxygen: a pulse oximetry test and arterial blood gas. Both of these tests measure the oxygen levels in your bloodstream, which is the best way to evaluate the supply of oxygen getting into your body.

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11. Can I Get a Certificate of Medical Necessity?

Your certificate of medical necessity will be necessary when proving to your insurance company and other third-party organizations that you have a medical need for an oxygen device. To avoid delays in receiving this document, be sure to ask about it right when you are receiving your oxygen prescription.

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Final Thoughts

It is very common for patients to leave their doctor’s appointments feeling like they have too much to remember yet also think that they did not ask the questions they really wanted to ask. With this simple list of 11 questions to ask regarding your oxygen prescription, you will be prepared during your appointment and will walk away, feeling more confident about your treatment plan.

Thomas Medical Equipment will make the process simple for you. We handle all of the ifs, ands, and buts for you. If you should happen to have any questions about your therapy, you can always call one of our Respiratory Therapists or staff members. Everyone is knowledgeable about your therapy and can be a big help to you.