Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are an essential medical device. They help patients with respiratory conditions get supplemental oxygen. They are an addition to the traditional medical oxygen equipment. A POC enables you to continue with oxygen therapy while doing your daily activities.
However, portable oxygen concentrators have advantages and disadvantages, like any medical device. We will explore the pros and cons of a POC and compare it to a home oxygen concentrator.
Portable oxygen concentrators benefit users in various ways. They are small battery-powered devices that you can carry around when in use.
A portable oxygen concentrator substitutes traditional oxygen tanks and home oxygen concentrators.
Here are the pros of portable oxygen concentrators:
One of the main advantages of a portable oxygen concentrator is its portability. The device is lightweight, which makes it easy to transport and handle. An average portable oxygen concentrator weighs 5 pounds or less.
A portable oxygen concentrator gives you freedom to move and travel. You can carry your oxygen supply while walking or using other means. Most POC models have FAA approval for use in air travel.
With a POC, you can continue leading an active lifestyle. You can use the device during regular outdoor walks or community activities. Portable oxygen concentrators ensure oxygen is never a limiting factor.
Most POC supply oxygen only when you breathe, synchronizing with your breathing pattern. This is called the Pulse Dose oxygen delivery method, which helps to prolong battery life.
With a portable oxygen concentrator, there is no need for tank refills. You will not worry about running out of oxygen.
A POC doesn't need to store and transport the oxygen cylinders. The devices are convenient and cost-effective for long-term oxygen therapy.
Portable oxygen concentrators offer flexibility and ease of use. These two benefits encourage patients to adhere better to their oxygen therapy prescription.
Portable oxygen concentrator prices vary depending on the model's capability. POC models with larger oxygen output have higher prices. You can get an affordable POC fitting your prescription.
POCs bring a lot of benefits. You also need to consider some disadvantages of a portable oxygen concentrator.
A Portable oxygen concentrator's oxygen output is up to 5 liters per minute. It may make the device unsuitable for patients with severe respiratory diseases. However, a POC might be suitable for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Another disadvantage of a POC is its battery life and power source. A POC battery can last 3 to 10 hours, depending on the model and flow rate settings. You need to carry a backup battery when away from primary power sources.
The limited battery duration requires you to recharge often. It can be a challenge when using the device outdoors. Lack of power can cause downtimes during oxygen therapy.
The initial cost of a POC is higher than that of oxygen tanks or a home oxygen concentrator. A POC price may be discouraging for those working with a tight budget. However, you can also explore second-hand or rental options. A supplier like ReadyO2 has POC costing less than$2,000.
With a portable oxygen concentrator, there is no need for tank refills. You will not worry about running out of oxygen.
A POC doesn't need to store and transport the oxygen cylinders. The devices are convenient and cost-effective for long-term oxygen therapy.
Portable oxygen concentrators produce audible operational noise. This sound can be noticeable and can impact user comfort. Most POCs produce between less than 50 decibels, comparable to a quiet library.
A portable oxygen concentrator requires periodic service by a qualified technician. The service ensures the device operates properly and lasts longer.
The POC internal filters need regular cleaning to work at peak efficiency. Depending on the model, removing and refitting the filters may be challenging.
A POC has the potential for technical issues and breakdowns. They include decreased oxygen concentration, power-related problems, or complete failure. Such issues may result in downtime during therapy.
A portable oxygen concentrator cannot operate without power. It is a disadvantage when primary power sources are unavailable. It can compromise the device's operations.
Portable oxygen concentrators have limited oxygen output levels. Thus, they may not suit all patients. Some patients need higher oxygen volumes and flow rates than a POC can provide. They also do not have a continuous flow delivery mode, which offers a constant oxygen supply.
A POC suits individuals needing supplemental oxygen below 5 liters per minute. A healthcare provider may prescribe the device for an active individual suffering from:
A POC and home oxygen concentrator deliver medical-grade oxygen in the same way. However, the two oxygen machines differ in some aspects.
Differences between a portable oxygen concentrator and a home oxygen concentrator are:
We recommend a POC as a source of oxygen supplementation because of the following: