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Our veteran clinicians share their tips for success for oxygen therapy

ASK APRIA

Today's Clinician

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Sarah Knight

Sarah has been a Registered Respiratory Therapist for 17 years. Sarah came to Apria over a year ago when she realized that she wanted more of a relationship with her patients than is possible in a hospital setting — and she's been serving Apria's patients in Northwest South Carolina ever since! When she's not at work, Sarah enjoys reading, traveling, and watching the Atlanta Braves with her husband.

RESPIRATORY

Q. My concentrator is making a hissing sound where I plug in the tubing for my cannula – what does that mean? 

 

A. The hissing sound is oxygen escaping around the connection at the plug and cannula. Take the nasal cannula off the plug and reattach firmly and securely. 

Q. Are there portable oxygen concentrators that last more than 3 hours? I would like to get out of my home for longer. And does insurance typically cover POCs?

 

A.  Portable oxygen concentrators can last longer than 3 hours, The Inogen G5 boasts a run time of 13 hours (at a lower setting). The type and brand of portable oxygen concentrator you have will determine the battery life. Additionally, the POC battery life is also dependent on the oxygen setting, your respiratory rate, and the number of rechargeable batteries you have. Apria has a consumer website, ApriaDirect, that patients can purchase extra batteries to extend the travel time in-between charging requirements.

Yes, most insurance will cover a portable oxygen concentrator if you have DME coverage, but that can vary depending on your plan. 

For more information: Maximizing battery life for portable oxygen concentrators

Q. Do you have any breathing exercises or suggestions to help improve breathing for patients on oxygen?

 

A. Exercise in general is great for patients with breathing issues. Low impact cardio such as walking or swimming can build stamina and improve breathing. Building muscles in the legs, back, and arms, helps the body to use oxygen more efficiently. Any exercise program should be monitored by a physician when using oxygen. Pulmonary Rehab is a monitored exercise program prescribed by your physician and is a great option for those with breathing difficulties.

Other breathing exercises include pursed lip breathing, diaphragmatic breathing (or belly breathing), and deep breathing. These are all useful breathing exercises or techniques that can be performed in the comfort of your home, multiple times per day. 

For more information: Five helpful breathing exercises for respiratory patients

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