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| Typical Number in Hospital: 3 | Cost Bands: 4 | References: |
An alternative to using piped or bottled oxygen to enrich the air supply to patients with lung disorders is to use an oxygen concentrator. This employs a 'molecular sieve' which is a mechanical filter which allows smaller molecules through more easily. Air is drawn through the sieve and the initial gas mixture delivered has an enhanced oxygen level. This mixture is retained, the system purged, and the process repeated. The retained gases are fed through the sieve repeatedly to progressively enhance the oxygen concentration. Usually two sieves are in use which work alternately. Portable units are available which are suitable for use by the patient at home, thus removing the need for bottled gas deliveries.
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