Customer Handbook. Oxygen Therapy

Transcription

1 Oxygen Therapy Customer Handbook Sanford HealthCare Accessories is committed to providing quality products and services to promote health and healing. Through ongoing customer education, physical assessments, use of state of the art technology, and highly educated, professional personnel, we are dedicated to meeting our customers needs with the highest level of customer service.

2 Table of contents Proper Hand Washing Techniques...1 How to Operate Your Oxygen Concentrator... 2 Safety Precautions for Your Oxygen Concentrator...3 Safety Precautions to Prevent Falls...3 Cleaning Instructions for Your Oxygen Concentrator...4 Cleaning Your Filters...5 Troubleshooting Your Equipment (Oxygen Concentrator)...5 How To Operate Your E-Cylinder...6 Oxygen Cylinder Safety Procedures...7 Liquid Oxygen Filling Procedure...8 Helpful Tips Summary & Troubleshooting Q&A for Your HELiOS Portable Unit...9 Connecting the Portable Unit to the Reservoir Unit...10 Safe Operating Procedure...11 Emergency Backup System...12 Emergency/Disaster Assistance Travel...Back Cover Sanford HealthCare Accessories Locations...Back Cover Proper Hand Washing Techniques Personal hygiene, as it relates to proper hand washing techniques, is essential in helping to prevent cross contamination and exposure to infections for both the customer and the caregiver. Hand Washing is the single most important procedure for interrupting transmission of infection to customers and caregivers. Caregivers shall properly wash their hands before and after physical contact with the patient or after handling used equipment. If hands come in contact with blood, body fluids or other potentially infectious materials, they should be washed with soap and water. Antibacterial soap is recommended. Hands should be washed even when gloves have been worn. Proper hand washing technique: A. Wash hands vigorously with soap and running water for a minimum of fifteen (15) seconds (Sing a verse of Yankee Doodle.) B. To properly clean hands two elements are needed: 1. Friction (achieved by rubbing hands together); and 2. Length of time the soap is in contact with the hands. C. Dry hands with clean towel. 1

3 How to Operate Your Oxygen Concentrator These diagrams will assist you in becoming more familiar with the equipment you will be using. Your oxygen (O2) concentrator may vary slightly from this photo but it has the same primary features. Figure 1 1. Plug the power cord into an outlet being sure to have the machine located eight to ten inches away from walls, curtains or other furniture to allow for adequate air circulation. Check to see that the electrical outlet being used is not controlled by a wall switch. Avoid plugging the unit in next to heat sources. 2. If you are using a humidifier (figure 2), use distilled water to fill the jar between the minimum and maximum indicator lines. Attach the nut from the humidifier jar to the threaded O2 outlet connection on the concentrator. If a humidifier is NOT necessary, attach the oxygen supply tubing directly to the oxygen adapter that is threaded on the O2 connection of the concentrator. 3. Turn on the concentrator with the on/off power switch (figure 3). Listen for the alarm to sound for a short period of time (less than 60 seconds). The concentrator will cycle intermittently and make a slight cycling noise. 4. Turn the control knob (figure 4) on the flow meter to set the prescribed liter flow. As you set the flow you will see a ball floating in the tube next to the number prescribed. The middle of the ball should balance on the number. Figure 2 Figure 3 Your flow rate is LPM. Use O2 for hours per day. 5. If you are using a humidifier (figure 2), check to make sure the oxygen is bubbling through the water in the humidifier. 6. Attach a cannula, mask or other appliance (figure 5) to the humidifier or outlet adapter. Note: The frequency for changing the disposable plastics, ie., nasal cannulas and the oxygen connecting tubing, will depend on plastic hardness and the ability to be recleaned. We recommend changing the nasal cannulas every two weeks and the oxygen connecting tubing every ninety (90) days. DO NOT submerge the cannula or oxygen connecting tubes in water as the diameter of the tubing does not allow for proper drying. Figure 5 Figure 4 2

4 Safety Precautions 1. No smoking or open flames should be allowed when oxygen is in use. Display No Smoking and Oxygen in Use signs to alert others to the presence of oxygen in the home (figure 6). Figure 6 2. When you are not using oxygen, remove the nasal cannula, mask or other appliance (figure 5) and turn the power switch off (figure 3). 3. Keep oxygen away from any other flames and highly combustible materials (at least six (6) feet). A. Avoid materials such as petroleum jelly, hair oil, hair and other aerosol sprays, petroleum based skin lotions, grease or oil. B. Remove and avoid sources of ignition such as hair dryers, electric razors, heaters, sparking toys, lit cigarettes, candles, etc. C. You can continue to use your electric or gas stoves and ovens; however, avoid bringing the nasal cannula and tubing anywhere near the heat source. You may do this by putting the tubing back over your shoulders (secure with clothes pin etc., if necessary). Be careful not to obstruct the flow or pierce the tubing. You may want to use the back burners of the stove to further avoid the heat source and pull the oven racks out to you with a utensil when you are baking. 4. Use only the amount of oxygen prescribed by your physician. Oxygen is considered a drug and must be used properly. 5. Fifty (50) feet of oxygen delivery tubing is the maximum that should be used with your nasal cannula or other delivery appliance. Longer lengths of tubing may impair performance of the concentrator. 6. When using longer lengths of oxygen tubing, be aware of the trip factor. 7. Test your smoke detector every month. 8. Place the concentrator close enough to electrical outlets to keep power cords out of walkways and to eliminate the need for extension cords. 9. Do not allow children or untrained individuals to operate the medical equiptment. Safety Precautions to Prevent Falls 3 1. Look around your home and remove any items in living areas, bedrooms, hallways, or stairs that could potentially cause a stumble or fall (rugs, toys, clothes, etc.). 2. PAY ATTENTION as you walk throughout your home. Avoid talking on the phone, carrying multiple items, rushing to perform tasks, etc. 3. If you are using an oxygen concentrator, determine what length of tubing you need. Where in your home do you need/want to go? There are various lengths of tubing available. Don t get a length that is excessive for your needs because it just puts you at a greater risk to trip over it. We call this the trip factor with long oxygen tubing. As you are walking around your home, pick up your oxygen tubing as you go so it is not tripped on when walking back and forth. (It s in your hands, you know where it is.) 4. When using any home medical equipment or devices (i.e. walkers, canes, portable oxygen, wheelchairs, etc.), know how to use the equipment properly. If you don t know, please ask. Also keep in mind that as you begin to use your new equipment, it will take time to adjust and you may need to be extra careful during this time to avoid stumbles or falls. For those who have had equipment for a long time, remember that although you are used to it, it never hurts to re-evaluate and use safety precautions. 5. Arrange furniture or other items in your home to ensure that it is easy to maneuver around. The less that is in your way, the less chance you have to fall.

5 Cleaning Oxygen Therapy Equipment Warning Signs of Infection (Contact your physician if indicated) - Increased shortness of breath. - Increased work of breathing and sputum production. - Color change in sputum. - Fever and chills. Equipment that is not routinely cleaned or disinfected is a possible source of infection. Cleaning of your oxygen equipment is essential to decrease the potential for infection. We recommend that cleaning be done on a forty-eight (48) hour basis and that disinfecting be done once a week. Examples: bubble humidifiers and other re-cleanable plastics (not tubing). Do not use a dishwasher for cleaning equipment. A. Cleaning Procedure (Soap and Water) 1. Provide a clean work area and wash hands thoroughly before beginning cleaning procedure. 2. Disassemble the equipment in a container that is designated for this purpose. 3. Wash the parts in hot, soapy water using a mild dish detergent. Use a brush that is designated for this equipment to clean parts as necessary. 4. Rinse all parts thoroughly under hot running tap water. 5. Place all parts on a clean paper towel to air dry. 6. Wash your hands thoroughly before assembling the parts for usage. If the equipment will not be in service for a period of time, store the assembled parts in a clean bag. B. Disinfection Procedure (once a week) White Vinegar or Disinfectant Like Control III. 1. Follow steps 1-4 under the Cleaning Procedure for soap and water. 2. Prepare a solution using one part white vinegar to three parts tap water or prepare a disinfectant according to the manufacturer s instructions. 3. Completely submerge all parts in the solution. Soak in the vinegar solution for thirty (30) minutes or soak in disinfectant for the manufacturer s specified length of time. 4. Rinse all parts thoroughly under hot running tap water. 5. Place all parts on a clean paper towel to air dry. 6. Wash your hands thoroughly before assembling the parts for usage. If the equipment will not be in service for a period of time, store the assembled parts in a clean bag. 7. The vinegar solution should be discarded after each use. Keep the disinfectant covered between uses and use only as long as recommended by the manufacturer. C. Other Disinfection Options to Consider Include: 1. Soaking in two tablespoons of bleach to six cups of water for three minutes. 2. Soaking in 70% isopropyl alcohol for five (5) minutes. 3. Soaking in Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) for thirty (30) minutes. 4. After completing the chosen option, rinse, dry and assemble as noted in Procedure B above. 4

6 Filters Filters should be washed and cleaned weekly and more frequently if the operating environment requires it. Do not use a dishwasher for cleaning equipment. 1. Remove the filter and wash it in a warm solution of soap and water (figure 7). 2. Rinse the filter thoroughly to remove any excess soap or residue (figure 8). 3. Remove the excess water by using a soft absorbent cloth towel. 4. Re-install the filter in the concentrator. Note: Some concentrators do not have removable filters and require the air intake grid to be wiped off or vacuumed out. Figure 7 Figure 8 Troubleshooting Your Equipment Problem: Solution: Problem: Solution: Problem: Solution: Problem: Solution: If you turn on your concentrator and the power failure alarm comes on and/or the unit doesn t cycle. Check to see that the unit is plugged into a functional wall outlet. Check your fuse box for a tripped breaker or blown fuse. Some concentrators have a circuit breaker reset button. If yours does, reset it if necessary. If your concentrator is operating but there is reduced or no air flow. Make sure all fittings are tight. Check to see if the humidifier jar and cover are tight and the nut is threaded tightly on the threaded outlet fitting of the concentrator. A plugged humidifier can cause a flow problem. Check to make sure the oxygen tubing is not kinked or twisted. If your concentrator makes unusual noise or alarms or has lights on which are not normally on. Contact your Sanford HealthCare Accessories supplier promptly. If your tubing contains condensation particles. If your tubing is laying on the floor, condensation may occur. It may be necessary to insert a H2O trap to prevent excessive moisture buildup in your tubing. The tubing may also be dried by operating the concentrator without humidity for a short time. Contact your Respiratory Therapist. Please be aware: Oxygen concentrators are mechanical equipment that on occasion do experience malfunction. If you feel your concentrator may not be operating properly and you are experiencing breathing discomfort, contact your Sanford HealthCare Accessories supplier immediately. (See back cover for contact information.) 5

7 How to Operate Your Oxygen Cylinder 1. The tank must be secured by a cart or ring stand. 2. Secure the regulator (figure 10 and 14) to the oxygen cylinder (figure 9). Align the two A pins on the yoke (figure 13) with the two pin holes on the side of the valve stem (figure 12). Be sure the washer is in place before tightening the regulator. 3. The regulator (figure 10) has two gauges: one shows the amount of oxygen in the tank (Content Gauge) and the other shows the flow of oxygen in liters per minute (Flow Meter). The regulator (figure 14) has one gauge that shows the amount of oxygen in the tank (Content Gauge). 4. Using the valve wrench (figure 11), open the tank valve and observe Contents Gauge rise to between 1,800 & 2,000 pounds per square inch when full. NOTE: Turn the wrench counterclockwise to open the tank and clockwise to close the valve. 5. Turn the control knob on the regulator (figure 10). Watch the gauge with the needle adjustment and set the prescribed liter flow or turn the control knob on the regulator (figure 14) until the prescribed liter flow is visible in the window. 6. Attach a cannula, mask or other appliance to the oxygen adapter (figure 10). Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 Cannula Figure 12 Figure 13 Figure 14 6

8 Oxygen Cylinder Safety Procedures 1. Use only the amount of oxygen prescribed by your physician. Oxygen is considered a drug and it must be used properly. 2. When you are not using your oxygen cylinder, remove the cannula, mask, or other appliance and turn off the main cylinder valve and control knob (figure 10). 3. Keep oxygen away from any open flames and highly combustible materials. (At least six feet.) A. Avoid materials such as petroleum jelly, hair oil, hair and other aerosol sprays, petroleum based skin lotions, grease or oil. B. Remove and avoid sources of ignition such as hair dryers, electric razors, heaters, sparking toys, lit cigarettes, candles, etc. C. You can continue to use your electric or gas stoves and ovens; however, avoid bringing the nasal cannula and tubing anywhere near the heat source. You may do this by putting the tubing back over your shoulders (secure with clothes pin etc., if necessary). Be careful not to obstruct the flow or pierce the tubing. You may want to use the back burners of the stove to further avoid the heat source and pull the oven racks out to you with a utensil when you are baking. D. Be sure to check the content gauge regularly. If the contents are low (500 pounds or below red zone) consider what time limits you may be dealing with and plan accordingly. (Example: take an extra cylinder with you. Reorder oxygen prior to completely depleting your supply or stop by your Sanford Healthcare Accessories store to exchange cylinders.) 4. Spare cylinders stored in an upright position must be secured by a chain or in a storage rack or bin. 5. Spare cylinders stored lying flat must be out of the way in a low traffic area. 6. Keep oxygen cylinders in a well ventilated area to prevent the buildup of an oxygen enriched atmosphere. 7. Avoid striking cylinders against each other. (There is potential for sparks being created). It is recommended that portable oxygen cylinders not be stored within five feet of an electrical outlet. 8. Cylinders should not be stored near radiators or other sources of radiant heat. Storage temperature should not exceed 125 degrees Fahrenheit. 9. Avoid transporting cylinders in the trunk of your vehicle. Secure any tanks when transporting. 10. Display No Smoking and Oxygen in Use signs to alert others to the presence of oxygen in the home (figure 6). 7

9 Liquid Oxygen Filling Procedure 1. Dry the fill connector on both the reservoir and H300 portable unit with a clean, dry cloth. Figure 1 2. Check the reservoir contents indicator to make sure enough liquid oxygen is available. 3. Firmly lower the H300 portable unit onto the reservoir so the H300 connector engages the reservoir connector. Press straight down directly over the fill connector (figure 1). 4. While firmly holding the H300 unit in place with one hand, move the vent valve lever 90 degrees down to the open position with the other hand. Maintain a downward force while filling (figure 2). Figure 2 H300 Fill Connector Vent Valve Lever Reservoir Fill Connector Figure 3 5. Close the vent valve lever when you notice sputtering in the fill noise, followed by the release of white vapor (usually within 40 seconds from start of procedure). 6. Hold the H300 unit by the handle with one hand, and press the release button on the reservoir with the other hand. Gently pull the H300 off the reservoir once the release button is down (figure 3). 7. Holding the strap on the back, push the bottom back side of the H300 unit until it is vertical. The green indicator should fill the window, showing that the unit is full (figure 4). Reservoir Release Button Figure 4 8

10 Helpful Tips Summary Make sure the portable unit is fully engaged with the reservoir before filling. Hold the portable unit straight down when filling, and maintain steady downward pressure. Individuals short in height may want to consider using a step-up riser during the filling process. Excessive vapor during the filling process indicates the portable unit is full. Continuing to fill the unit will not add oxygen. Troubleshooting Q & A: Why is it important to dry the connectors before filling the HELiOS portable unit? Drying the connections on the portable unit and reservoir helps prevent the units from freezing together during filling. How can I determine if the HELiOS portable unit is full after filling? Check the oxygen contents indicator to see if the portable is filled to the desired level. To check the contents indicator, use one hand to lift the HELiOS portable by the contents indicator strap. The top of the unit will slightly tip forward. With your other hand, gently press the bottom back side of the portable unit so it is at a 90-degree angle to the floor. The green indicator should fill the window. What should I do if the HELiOS portable unit stops pulsing? To make certain that the portable unit has stopped pulsing, put on the cannula, close your mouth and breathe only through your nose. If pulsing has stopped, check the following: Make sure both connections of the dual-lumen cannula are firmly attached to the portable oxygen outlet and sensor connectors. Determine whether water droplets are present in the cannula. Water droplets from humidified exhaled gas is normal, but can sometimes cause the unit to stop pulsing. If you think this may be the problem, consider changing the cannula. Make sure the cannula is not kinked. Check to see if there is oxygen in the portable unit. What should I do if the HELiOS portable unit vent valve does not close properly? If the vent valve fails to close and the hissing sound continues, remove the portable unit by depressing the reservoir release button. The portable unit should stop venting in a few minutes. Allow the unit to warm up before fully closing the vent valve. Thirty minutes may be needed to restore adequate pressure for accurate oxygen flow to the portable unit. What can I do if the HELiOS portable unit is not filling? First, verify that there is oxygen in the reservoir. Then check the pressure in the reservoir. Liquid oxygen in the reservoir should be saturated at a minimum pressure of 24 psi for proper operation to occur. Contact your homecare provider if the pressure gauge on top of the reservoir reads below 24 psi. 9

11 Connecting the Portable Unit to the Reservoir Unit When you no longer wish to leave home or move about for the day, you may connect the portable unit to the reservoir unit using the oxygen supply line. This will reduce wasted oxygen and will improve the efficiency of the reservoir. To achieve maximum efficiency from the standard HELiOS reservoir, you should connect the portable to the reservoir at least 10 hours per 24-hour period. It is important that the portable be nearly empty so that the oxygen from the portable comes directly from the reservoir. This will maximize the efficiency of the system. Connect your portable to the reservoir as follows: 1. Thread the oxygen supply line nut onto the reservoir oxygen supply outlet as pictured below (figure 1). Make sure the connection is tight. If a hissing sound is heard, tighten until the hissing stops. 2. Connect the opposite end of the oxygen supply line to the portable at the oxygen supply connector by pushing the supply line into the connector (figure 2). The connectors should snap together. If the supply line does not easily engage into the portable, push the silver release button on the portable connector and try again. 3. You can now breathe off the portable unit as long as there is oxygen in the reservoir unit. You can determine the oxygen contents in the reservoir unit by pushing the blue button on the reservoir contents indicator (figure 3). If you get a green light, the level is fine. If the yellow light appears, inform your oxygen supply company. Figure 1 Figure 2 Release Button Figure 3 Oxygen Outlet Connection Oxygen Supply Connecor Oxygen Supply Line Oxygen Supply Line CAUTION When the reservoir and portable are connected, avoid putting the unrolled supply line in places where it might be damaged or tripped over. One sign of damage is frost on the supply line, indicating that a puncture or cut is causing an oxygen leak. If this occurs, disconnect the supply line from the reservoir. 4. To disconnect the supply line from the portable, push the release button and gently remove the supply line from the connector. 10

12 Safe Operating Procedure Liquid Oxygen, Cold Contact Burns and Spills Liquid Oxygen Cold Contact Burn: 1. Obtain medical assistance as soon as possible 2. Remove any clothing that may restrict circulation to the frozen area. 3. Do not rub frozen area as tissue damage may occur. 4. Place affected area in warm water bath not to exceed 105º Fahrenheit. Never use dry heat. Victim should also be in a warm room, if possible. 5..Prompt medical attention is imperative if there has been a massive exposure that could depress the entire body temperature. If immediate medical attention is not available, immersion in a warm water bath (as described above) and supportive treatment for shock should be provided. 6. Frozen tissue is painless and appears waxy, with possible yellow color. The tissue will become swollen, painful and prone to infection when thawed. Do not re-warm the tissue rapidly if the accident occurs in a place where the victim cannot be transported for medical attention immediately. Thawing may require 15 to 60 minutes. Tissue will become pink or red when thawed. Narcotics, like morphine or tranquilizers, may be required to control pain during thawing. The drugs should be administered only under professional medical supervision. 7. If the frozen area has thawed by the time medical attention has been obtained, cover the area with a dry sterile dressing and with a large bulky protective covering. 8. Alcoholic beverages and smoking decreases blood flow to the frozen tissue and should not be used. Warm drinks and food may be administered to a conscious victim. Liquid Oxygen Spill: 1. The customer, upon setup, will be informed of the emergency procedures to initiate in the event of a liquid oxygen spill. If a liquid oxygen spill occurs indoors, open doors and windows to ventilate the area. Avoid sources of ignition and do not walk or roll equipment over the affected area. Any clothing or porous material that is splashed with liquid oxygen or otherwise absorbs high concentration of oxygen should be removed and aired for at least one hour away from any source of ignition. Immediately notify Sanford HealthCare Accessories of a leak/spill of liquid oxygen contents. 11

13 Emergency Backup System The system is provided for our continuous user oxygen customers and it is to be used in the event of a power outage or concentrator failure. If your physician has prescribed oxygen for a minimum of 18 hours per day, you would be considered a continuous user. The size of the tank provided is dependent upon the liter flow setting you are to use and the distance that you live from our Sanford HealthCare Accessories store location that serves you. Equipment Includes: An oxygen tank, regulator and floor stand. 1. The regulator will have a content gauge to indicate the amount of oxygen in the tank and a control knob or dial to set your prescribed liter flow. 2. To use, turn the round hand wheel on the top of the tank valve approximately one full turn in a counter clockwise direction. Check the pressure reading on the content gauge. (Full is approximately 1800 to 2000 pounds of pressure per square inch.) The pressure reading will fall as the oxygen is used. 3. Turn the control knob or dial on the regulator to the prescribed liter flow. 4. Attach your nasal cannula or tubing to the oxygen adaptor. Continue to use the backup system until power is restored or the problem is corrected. 5. Be sure to check the tank contents gauge on a regular basis. Contact Sanford HealthCare Accessories if you have used your Emergency Backup System for any extended period of time. 6. Do not use your backup system for portability needs. It needs to be available to meet your needs in an emergency situation. Regulator Oxygen Tank Floor Stand 12

14 Emergency/Disaster Assistance The Dakotas and Minnesota on occasion are subject to adverse weather conditions and extremes. Unstable summer weather may spawn electrical storms or tornado activity while winter ice and snowstorms are a real possibility. The occurrence of an emergency situation or natural disaster could cause a disruption of care or service that might be potentially harmful to some of our medical equipment users. A. Please be aware of the following general information: 1. Turn to an emergency broadcast radio or television station during any emergency to keep current on events happening around you. 2. Stock extra batteries for your radio. 3. Call a local medical facility/emergency room/rescue squad, etc., if you require medical care/supplies and Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, cannot assist you due to emergency conditions. 4. If you are without power and have no secondary or emergency heating source (fireplace, wood-burning stove, kerosene heater, etc.), plan ahead should you need to relocate. Consider neighbors, other family members, local shelters, etc., as relocation options. B. Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, has multi-site locations: If your primary store location experiences problems due to an emergency or disaster and you are not able to contact them, be aware of other Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, location phone numbers you may use to communicate your needs. Fargo (701) or Bismarck (701) or Jamestown (701) or Minot (701) or Bemidji (218) or East Grand Forks (218) or Thief River Falls (218) or C. Take time to list other phone numbers that may offer assistance in an emergency. Keep the listing where it is easily accessible. 1. Emergency 911, if available in your area Local law enforcement 3. Local hospital or clinic 4. Local ambulance or rescue squad 5. Power company 6. County sheriff department 7. County Emergency Management/Red Cross 8. Emergency broadcast radio and TV stations 13 Radio TV Fargo KFGO (790 AM) KVLY Bismarck KFYR (550 AM) KFYR or KYYY (93.2 FM) Jamestown KQDJ (1400 AM) KVLY Minot KCJB (910 AM) KMOT Bemidji KKBJ (1360 AM) KVLY East Grand Forks KNOX (1310 AM) KVLY Thief River Falls KTRF (1230 AM) KVLY

15 D. Power Outage: Several types of medical equipment require electricity to operate. A power interruption will necessitate seeking other alternatives. 1. Oxygen Concentrators (Contact Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, first.) a. Use your emergency backup system or portable oxygen tanks, if available. b. Contact your local power company for any assistance they can _provide. c. Contact your local hospital, clinic, or ambulance service to check on the availability of portable oxygen or other assistance. d. Consider moving your concentrator to a friend s or relative s home that may not have experienced a power interruption. * If you will be without oxygen for an extended period of time due to an emergency or disaster, you may want to limit your activities, as exertion can increase your oxygen needs. 2. Mechanical Ventilators (Contact Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, first.) a. The internal battery can power the ventilator for up to one hour. It cannot be considered as a long-term power backup. b. If you have an external battery backup system that is kept properly charged, you should have up to ten hours of usage. c. Consider moving your ventilator to a friend s or relative s home that may not have experienced a power interruption. d. Contact your local hospital, ambulance service, Red Cross, County Emergency Management office or your power company for possible assistance with transport, relocation access to portable generators, etc. e. Your manual resuscitator can be used as an alternate source of ventilator support if no backup power sources or other assistance is available. 3. Compressor/Nebulizer a. Consider taking your nebulizer to a friend s or relative s home that may not have experienced a power interruption. b. Maybe a local hospital or business has backup generator power that you can access. c. You may be able to substitute MDI s (Inhalers) if you are currently using them. Discuss with your physician. 4. Apnea Monitors (Contact Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, first.) a. Most apnea monitors should give up to 15 hours of continuous usage on their internal battery. b. Consider moving your monitor to a friend s or relative s home that may not have experienced a power interruption. c. If your monitor will not function due to loss of electricity and a depleted internal battery, someone will have to monitor the baby at all times. E. Equipment Damage or Loss: If your medical equipment has been damaged or lost due to an emergency or natural disaster or if you must leave your home for safety reasons: 1. Contact your Sanford HealthCare Accessories, LLC, supplier. 2. Contact local or county services for assistance as the situation dictates. They may be able to direct you to a shelter or alternate site. 14

16 Travel A. Your oxygen concentrator can be transported in your vehicle if you are planning a short term visit, vacation, etc. Consider the following: 1. Transport the concentrator in an upright position. 2. Protect the concentrator from the elements during transport. 3. If you have transported the concentrator in a very cold environment, allow the compressor and internal components to warm up before using. (Up to one hour warm-up is a good benchmark.) NOTE: Contact your local Sanford HealthCare Accessories if your travel plans are for an extended period of time. B. Airline Travel with Oxygen: On airlines that do accept passengers needing in-flight medical oxygen, be aware of the following: 1. You will not be allowed to use your own high pressure gas cylinders in flight due to F.A.A. regulations. Major airlines are allowing POC s (portable oxygen concentrators) to be used. 2. Each airline has its own procedures and cost schedule. You should contact an airline representative to determine their policy. 3. Make your arrangements well in advance of your anticipated travel date. 4. Carry a copy of your oxygen prescription with you. Sanford HealthCare Accessories Locations FARGO nd Ave. S, Fargo, ND (701) Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday Problems after business hours call: (701) or BISMARCK 121 East Century Ave., Bismarck, ND (701) Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday Problems after business hours call: (701) JAMESTOWN th Street SE, Jamestown, ND (701) Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday Problems after business hours call: (701) MINOT 116 1st Street SW, Minot, ND (701) Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday Problems after business hours call: (701) or BEMIDJI 1705 Anne Street NW, Suite #1 Bemidji, MN (218) Hours: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday Problems after business hours call: (218) or EAST GRAND FORKS 621 DeMers Avenue East Grand Forks, MN (218) Hours: 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Monday-Friday Problems after business hours call: (218) or THIEF RIVER FALLS 1845 Highway 59, Suite #100 Thief River Falls, MN (218) Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday Problems after business hours call: (218) or /10