On The Go with Oxygen
This information was approved by Jeff Swigris, DO, and Ann Mullen, RN, (September 2017)
Summary: On the Go with Oxygen
If your oxygen level is 88 percent or below, oxygen therapy is often recommended to ensure your blood has enough for your body’s needs.
How Oxygen Level is Measured
Pulse oximetry
Arterial blood gas
Your oxygen level can be measured through a device on your finger or a blood test.
Oxygen prescription includes:
How much oxygen to use measured in liters
When to use the oxygen (rest, activity, sleep, altitude)
Which oxygen system is recommended
Your doctor prescribes the oxygen. The Durable Medical Equipment Company provides the oxygen.
Types of Oxygen Systems
Oxygen concentrators
Portable oxygen concentrators
Compressed oxygen gas
Liquid oxygen
On Demand or Pulse Flow vs. Continuous Flow:
On demand or pulse flow provides oxygen when you breath in by triggering oxygen release (not recommended for sleep or everyone)
Continuous flow provides a set liter flow of oxygen
Additional Resources on Oxygen
Altitude Sickness and Oxygen Therapy
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