Oxygen

My grandpa has lymphoma (lymph node cancer) and he only has about a week left to live. His oxygen level is getting low. He is on a oxygen concentrator. I was wondering if it is safe to increase the oxygen level to the maximum level because his oxygen level is getting low. Is there any adverse side effect if I increase the oxygen level to the max level of 5L/minute? He is currently on 3L/min.How safe is this oxygen concentrator?

Thanks

I asked a doctor about this and his reply was what would hurt at this point. My mom died of lung cancer and she had a oxygen machine that I used to give her Oxygen when she needed it. Sometimes my moms hands would shake if you gave a lot of Oxygen but the doctor said it doesn’t matter at this point. I was her primary caregiver but it wouldn’t hurt to ask the doctor. If he only has a week left make him comfortable. Believe it scares the hell out of them when they cant breathe so comfort him.

3 Responses

1. Gretchen Says:
   May 31st, 2010 at 1:28 pm

   yep, you can increase it. Does he have COPD? If he does you may want to watch his spo2 level. you should keep it 92-95%. if he doesn’t have COPD (CO2 retainer) you can increase it as much as you want and as much as he needs. The o2 concentrator is safe. If you still have concerns call his doctor. He can be switched to a mask with 100% o2 if needed. Have you talked about hospice? they can help with end of life stuff.. make it easier. sorry
   References :
   I’m an RRT

2. Susan U Says:
   May 31st, 2010 at 2:13 pm

   I asked a doctor about this and his reply was what would hurt at this point. My mom died of lung cancer and she had a oxygen machine that I used to give her Oxygen when she needed it. Sometimes my moms hands would shake if you gave a lot of Oxygen but the doctor said it doesn’t matter at this point. I was her primary caregiver but it wouldn’t hurt to ask the doctor. If he only has a week left make him comfortable. Believe it scares the hell out of them when they cant breathe so comfort him.
   References :

3. iceman Says:
   May 31st, 2010 at 2:59 pm

   I dont mean to sound insensitive, but with only a week to live does it really matter?

   Do whatever makes him feel the best…
   References :

Leave a Comment