Oxygen Cylinder

We need to be aware of how to use oxygen cylinder in our own unit. In the present discussion, let us learn how one needs to change cylinder, and what precautions have to be taken while using the cylinder in our NICU.
Check the cylinder contents gauge on the cylinder valve to ensure that there is sufficient gas contents in the cylinder. Be sure the flow regulator knob is set at zero. Make sure the T-handle is tight. Open the cylinder valve slowly (turn anti clockwise until it stops) and check for any leak. Ensure the outlet (fir tree connector) is free of obstruction. As the valve opens, the gauge on the regulator will show the amount of pressure in the cylinder. A full cylinder will read about 2000 psi (pounds per square inch). If dirt or other obstruction is seen; briefly turn the flow dial to maximum to clear it. Ensure that the correct equipment is selected for connection to the cylinder.
Pressure regulator and Flow meter are essential connections for using oxygen cylinder in the NICU. They ensure appropriate and precise delivery of oxygen to the neonate.
Leak in the cylinder is suspected if there is hissing sound heard, when the flow meter is started. In this case, close valve, remove connection, check and refit the connector to the cylinder.
Oxygen is a non-flammable gas, but strongly supports combustion. Do not store or use cylinders near naked flames, sources of ignition or combustible materials. Ensure the oxygen cylinders are stored in a safe and secure area where they cannot fall over and cause injury. Smoking should not be permitted in the vicinity. Ensure separation of full and empty cylinders. Slide 6: Carry home message. We need to conversant with regards to changing and connecting oxygen cylinders in the NICU. Flow meter and pressure regulator are essential for using oxygen cylinder in the NICU. One needs to be careful in terms of safety and care of use of cylinders in the NICU.
  • Introduction...
  • 1. Overview...
  • 2. How to connect ...
  • 3. Essentials of c...
  • 4. How to check le...
  • 5. Storage of cyli...
  • 6. Key messages...
 

Introduction

DR. SANDEEP KADAM
MD, DM (Neonatology)

Associate Consultant Neonatologist
Department of Pediatrics
KEM Hospital
Pune

1. Overview

â–º How to use?

â–º Care of cylinder

â–º Caution during use

2. How to connect oxygen cylinder?

3. Essentials of cylinder for oxygen delivery

â–º Pressure regulator

â–º Flow meter are required to adjust the amount delivered to
    the patient

4. How to check leak in the cylinder?

â–º Hissing noise once the flow meter is started

â–º Close valve, remove connection, check and refit the
    connector to the cylinder

5. Storage of cylinder

â–º Ensure the oxygen cylinders are stored in a safe and secure
    area where they cannot fall over and cause injury

â–º Do not store or use cylinders near naked flames, sources of
    ignition or combustible materials

â–º Smoking should not be permitted in the vicinity

6. Key messages

â–º We need to conversant with regards to changing and
    connecting oxygen cylinders in the NICU

â–º Flow meter and pressure regulator are essential for using
    oxygen cylinder in the NICU

â–º One needs to be careful in terms of safety and care of use
    of cylinders in the NICU