Oxygen Concentrator

This is an oxygen device that takes in the normal oxygen that we breathe (21%) and removes other gases from the air and delivers 85-95% pure oxygen to the lungs. There are two models of oxygen concentrators, a 30-50 pound concentrator on wheels and a 3-20 pound portable concentrator. 

The 30-50 pound concentrator on wheels can deliver a higher concentration and a continuous of flow oxygen, but it requires electricity, cannot be used in power outages, and is not portable. 

Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC)

This concentrator weighs between 3-20 pounds, which makes it portable. It can be used in power outages and allows for a mobile life. The drawbacks of the POC are that it requires batteries that must be recharged, delivers a lower concentration of pure oxygen, and delivers pulses of oxygen instead of continuous  flow. It also must be pulled or held which could be difficult to the patient's mobility.  

Liquid Oxygen

Another form of therapeutic oxygen, liquid oxygen is made by a super-cooling (-300 degrees) oxygen that is stored in a container. Large quantities of liquid oxygen can be stored in huge thermos-like containers which deliver 100% pure oxygen, allow for continuous flow oxygen, and require no electricity. But because of its enormous weight, this form of oxygen is not portable.

Compressed Oxygen Tank

This form of oxygen is compressed under high pressure into a metal cylinder. It is one of the oldest methods for storing oxygen. These tanks come in large or small cylinders, and they contain 100% pure oxygen. Large oxygen tanks (E tanks) are heavy and cumbersome, so it is easiest to transport them using a wheeled cart. Smaller tanks (M6 or M9 tanks) are easier to carry, especially when placed inside a backpack to leave the patient's hands free for activity. Compressed tanks allow for either a continuous flow or pulsing regulator, enabling the patient to choose the best system for his/her needs. Continuous flow regulators provide the most consistent oxygen delivery, and they work well for individuals who can't breathe deeply enough to "trigger" a pulsing regulator. Pulsing regulators, also called "on-demand" or "conserving" regulators, provide a burst of oxygen each time the patient inhales. Pulsing regulators are thus able to conserve the oxygen in the tank so that the tank lasts for a longer duration.