From the Guidelines
Liquid oxygen is not directly administered to patients, but rather stored in specialized containers and converted to gaseous oxygen before administration through various delivery devices such as nasal cannulas, simple face masks, non-rebreather masks, or ventilators. The method of oxygen delivery depends on several factors, including the expected duration of treatment, type of respiratory illness, pattern of breathing, need for humidification, risk of carbon dioxide retention, and presence of confusion and its effect on potential compliance 1. Patients receive oxygen therapy at prescribed flow rates, typically 1-15 liters per minute, which are determined by healthcare providers based on the patient's oxygen saturation levels and clinical condition.
- Key considerations for oxygen delivery include:
- Expected duration of treatment
- Type of respiratory illness
- Pattern of breathing
- Need for humidification
- Risk of carbon dioxide retention
- Presence of confusion and its effect on potential compliance Liquid oxygen systems are commonly used in home settings for patients requiring long-term oxygen therapy because they are more compact than compressed gas cylinders, though they require special handling due to the extremely cold temperatures (-183°C) of the liquid oxygen, which can cause frostbite upon contact with skin 1.
From the Research
Administration of Liquid Oxygen
- Liquid oxygen is a type of oxygen device that combines a large cylinder with an easy-to-fill portable unit, making it suitable for exercise and outdoor use 2.
- The administration of liquid oxygen is often used for patients who are able to move and are still active, and do not have psychological reservations about using it in public 2.
- Liquid oxygen systems can provide a round-the-clock treatment and reduce flow rates, which can help lengthen the autonomy of portable units and avoid high flows 2.
- Patients on liquid oxygen typically have better adherence to treatment compared to those using a concentrator, which can improve the effectiveness of the treatment 2.
Delivery Systems
- Oxygen delivery systems, including liquid oxygen, can be categorized into high- and low-flow systems 3.
- The choice of delivery system depends on the individual patient's needs and the specific clinical condition being treated 3.
- It is essential to select the appropriate device and delivery system to ensure optimal oxygen therapy and minimize potential harms 3.
Safety Considerations
- Oxygen toxicity remains a concern, particularly in patients receiving supplemental oxygen, and can cause harm to the lungs and other tissues 4, 5, 6.
- Hyperoxia, or excess oxygen supplementation, can lead to alveolar injury, pulmonary edema, and systemic inflammatory response 5.
- It is crucial to titrate oxygen levels carefully to avoid both hypoxaemia and excess hyperoxaemia, and to maintain arterial oxygenation targets within a normal range 4, 5, 6.