Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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This page is to provide information to patients and their relatives/carers about palliative oxygen therapy.
You are prescribed your oxygen to support you with some of the difficult symptoms that you may be experiencing.
How long will I need oxygen for?
You need to use your oxygen in line with your prescription
You will be advised on this by your medical team who are arranging for you to have the oxygen.
How will I use my oxygen?
Your medical team will arrange for the oxygen equipment to be delivered to your home.
You will be given advice on how to use your oxygen safely.
You can receive your oxygen therapy through either nasal cannula or a face mask. Discuss which one you prefer with a member of your community home oxygen team.
Please ensure you have a working smoke alarm. Carry out monthly checks to confirm it is working.
You will need to inform your home insurance company that you have oxygen in your home, this should not effect your premium.
You will be offered an electricity rebate based on your estimated usage. You will need to contact your supplier to be put on a priority list for reconnection in the event of a power failure.
You will be followed up at home by the community home oxygen team to ensure you know how to use your equipment and answer any questions you may have.
What precautions do I need to take when using Oxygen?
DO NOT:
• Smoke or use an E cigarette in the house or vicinity of the oxygen machine or outlet.
• Use products containing grease or oil on, or near the face.
• Cook with oxygen when using a gas hob; Oxygen can be worn whilst eating.
• Change the flow rate or increase duration of use above what is prescribed.
• Leave oxygen running when it is not in use.
• Use any flammable products whist wearing Oxygen, such as paint or oil.
• Use your oxygen close to a gas fire or any naked flame.
Take Caution not to trip over Oxygen tubing!
If you experience new symptoms of headache, a faster than normal pulse rate, disorientation or confusion, you must tell your community home oxygen team immediately, or go to the Emergency Department
AIR Team
King Edward VII Hospital
St Leonards Road
Windsor
SL4 3DP
Telephone: 0300 614 6459
FHFT Community Respiratory Team
Farnham Hospital
Hale Road
Farnham
GU9 9QL
Telephone: 0300 003 0050
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Respiratory medicine service.
About this information
Service:
Respiratory medicine
Reference:
W/017
Approval date:
1 November 2024
Review date:
1 November 2025
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.