Are you looking for a supplemental oxygen machine that can keep up with your active lifestyle? If so, you may consider a portable oxygen concentrator (POC). In this blog post, we’ll discuss the differences between continuous flow and pulse flow POCs and some of the benefits of using each type.
What is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?
A Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) is a device that provides supplemental oxygen to individuals suffering from breathing difficulties. It works by taking in ambient air and filtering out the nitrogen and other components, leaving the oxygen-rich air delivered to the user. A POC can be used both in the home and on the go, making it an invaluable tool for those with respiratory illness or who have difficulty getting enough oxygen due to altitude or other environmental factors. Portable Oxygen Concentrators are usually small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them ideal for those who need to be able to transport their oxygen source with them.
What is Continuous Flow?
Continuous Flow is a type of oxygen delivery system that offers a steady stream of oxygen at a constant flow rate, regardless of the user’s breathing pattern. This is the most common type of oxygen delivery system for patients with chronic lung conditions, including COPD and emphysema. Continuous flow oxygen systems are designed to provide an uninterrupted supply of oxygen, which is important for maintaining adequate oxygen levels in the body. The continuous flow rate of these systems can range from 0.5 liters per minute (LPM) up to 3 LPM, depending on the user’s needs.
Are Portable Oxygen Concentrators Continuous Flow?
Yes, some portable oxygen concentrators offer a continuous flow setting, which allows the user to receive a steady and specified rate of oxygen from 5 to 3 liters per minute. These units are typically heavier and less portable than those that offer pulse dose settings, but they provide the user with a more reliable and consistent oxygen supply. Continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators come in various models, including the CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5, Respironics SimplyGo, Oxlife Independence, and Inogen One Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Each model offers different features and benefits to suit the user’s needs.
What are the Benefits of Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators?
The benefits of using a continuous-flow portable oxygen concentrator are numerous. Continuous flow oxygen concentrators offer a consistent, steady flow of oxygen and do not fluctuate as a person’s breathing rate changes. This ensures that the user receives the correct amount of oxygen they need at all times. Additionally, these units are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for those who need to travel or maybe on the go frequently. With a suitable continuous-flow portable oxygen concentrator, users can still enjoy a high quality of life while managing their respiratory health.
Types of Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators
When looking for a continuous-flow portable oxygen concentrator, several different types are available. CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5, Respironics SimplyGo, Oxlife Independence, and Inogen One Portable Oxygen Concentrators are all popular options. Each device provides different features and functions, so it is important to research each one to determine which type is best for a person’s individual needs. All of these concentrators offer continuous flow oxygen delivery in the form of either a pulse dose or continuous flow setting. They also provide portability and convenience, allowing oxygen users to remain active and mobile. It is important to look at all the features available in each type of concentrator to ensure it meets the user’s needs.
CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
The CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 is a robust high-flow portable oxygen concentrator that offers continuous flow up to 3 LPM and pulse flow settings from 1-9. This unit has an efficient alarm system and a battery life of 2 hours on continuous flow at 2 LPM or 5.1 hours at pulse flow settings. It is suitable for 24/7 use and provides the flexibility to meet the needs of nearly every prescription oxygen therapy.
Respironics SimplyGo
The Respironics SimplyGo is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) that offers Continuous Flow and Pulse-Dose oxygen delivery. It is the lightest POC on the market, weighing only 10 pounds, and can deliver up to 6 liters per minute on pulse dose and up to 2 LPM on continuous flow setting. This makes it one of the best options for continuous flow oxygen delivery, and its versatility of providing both continuous flow and pulse and sleep modes makes it an ideal choice for those who need different levels of oxygen support.
Oxlife Independence
The Oxlife Independence allows users to select between pulse dose and continuous flow delivery of oxygen. With patented Energy-Smart technology, the machine offers a longer battery life than many in-class machines and a continuous flow of up to 3 LPM 24/7. Weighing only 17 pounds, the Oxlife Independence provides the same supply as a larger stationary home model but in a much more convenient size. This portable oxygen concentrator also offers extended battery life for those on the go and is one type of continuous-flow portable oxygen concentrator available.
Inogen One Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Inogen One Portable Oxygen Concentrators are designed to provide convenience and mobility to users who need oxygen therapy. This type of oxygen delivery uses smaller components than concentrators that provide continuous flow oxygen, allowing for a smaller, lighter unit. Inogen One portable oxygen concentrators offer pulse dose oxygen with the ability to transport your oxygen therapy wherever you go easily. This device provides portable oxygen therapy with the same level of quality as continuous-flow oxygen concentrators but without the extra bulk of a full-sized concentrator.
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