This World Oxygen Day, we are highlighting the life-changing difference our Home Oxygen Service makes to patients every day.
There has been a dedicated service for the provision of home oxygen in Cumbria since 2014. Patients may need the home oxygen service for a number of reasons, such as to help protect against heart failure due to low blood oxygen levels and to support those on end-of-life care.
The North Cumbria Home Oxygen Service (NCHOS) support around 600 patients, and specialist oxygen nurses run oxygen clinics several times a week across north Cumbria.
The team receive lots of positive feedback from patients:
Valerie Mackins said: “Before I started using oxygen, I used to feel very anxious about leaving my house in case I couldn’t breathe. Since using the oxygen, I have found a new confidence within myself. I have more stamina and can do things I couldn’t do before.
“The oxygen, I feel, has given me a brighter outlook on my capabilities. I am determined to push myself to the maximum with the help of the oxygen and leave all my fear and anxieties behind."
David Stewart said: “Since using oxygen, I have been able to get on with daily living. It enables me to get out on my electric bike without exertion. It helps me to get out and about for short walks, seeing friends and keeping in touch with people.
“Good support through the oxygen team, and it’s easy to order the oxygen tanks – they’re usually here the following day.”
Deborah Atkinson, a Home Oxygen Patient, said: “The Oxygen and Virtual Ward Teams have been amazing checking in with me, and I really appreciate their support after coming home from hospital."
Blanche Stuart said: "I couldn’t imagine life without it."
Catherine Carter said: "I couldn’t manage without it. It’s my lifesaver. It means I can get out and about."
There are three main types of home oxygen:
- Long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT): A life-extending treatment worn by patients for at least 15 hours a day and helps protect against heart failure due to low blood oxygen levels.
- Ambulatory oxygen (AOT): This is used by patients who may experience a drop in their oxygen levels during exertional activities.
- Palliative oxygen therapy (POT): This is used by patients at the end of life who may experience unwanted symptoms due to low oxygen levels in the blood.