Conserving Devices

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GENERAL GUIDELINES
  • Conserving devices are prescribed at the direction of your physician.
  • Conserving devices are primarily used with portable oxygen tanks.
  • Conserving devices increase the amount of time a tank will last.
  • Conserving devices work by distributing oxygen while you inhale, and shutting off the distribution while you exhale.
  • On average, you can benefit from a 60% savings in oxygen from a tank.
  • Conserving devices respond to each person’s individual breathing rates, so your results will vary.
  • The constant flow of oxygen into the nasal passages is significantly reduced with a conserving device; as a result there is less chance for the occurrence of dry & irritated nasal passages.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
  • A conserving device attaches to a cylinder the same way a normal regular does, except for the following variations:
    • Make sure the conserving device is turned off prior to changing to a new tank.
    • Position the nasal cannula in your nose PRIOR to turning on the conserving regulator.
  • Remove the plastic wrapper from the valve, which is located on the top of the oxygen cylinder.
  • As a general rule, do not use tanks which do not have the plastic wrapper already in place.
  • Place the washer on the valve yoke located on the regulator.
  • Place the regulator over the valve located on top of the cylinder.
  • Align the two indexing pins with the corresponding holes on the cylinder valve.
  • Tighten the “T” handle firmly.
  • Using the supplier oxygen wrench, open the valve by turning the wrench clockwise.
  • If a loud hissing sound occurs, it indicates that oxygen is escaping. Turn the valve “off”, and check the washer alignment, and re-tighten the “T” handle.
  • Check the pressure gauge on the regulator. A full tank should read at least 2000 PSI.
  • Place the tubing attached to your cannula/mask on the regulator.
  • Adjust the regulator to your prescribed liters per minute. (If applicable switch to continuous flow if you feel you are not getting enough oxygen while using the conserving mode.)
  • When not using your cylinder, turn the conserver to the OFF position and close the tank valve with the oxygen wrench.

SAFETY
  • OCD systems only work reliably upon sufficient strong inhalation. OCD will not work with shallow breathing, a respiratory rate over 40 bpm, mouth breathing, nocturnal use, etc.
  • Do not use near any type of open flame (Cigarettes, matches, candles, etc.)
  • Do not use cannula tubing that is longer than 7 feet.
  • Always maintain the liter flow setting that is prescribed by your doctor.
  • Do not use a conserving device in conjunction with a humidifier.
  • In rare instances, conserving devices do not work properly with some people. If you feel you are not receiving enough oxygen, report this to your physician immediately.
  • When not in use, turn the conserving device off.
  • Do not obstruct or cover the conserving device. (Ex: under a coat or blanket)
  • If your conserver uses batteries keep a spare set of batteries on hand at all times.
  • Keep the conserving device away from liquids and extreme temperatures.


IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL OFFICE OR DELIVERY TECHNICIAN