Big Ideas Theater, Episode 16: Portable Oxygen Concentrators

In this episode of Big Ideas Theater, Kim Wiles, BS, RRT, CPFT, FAARC, vice president of Respiratory Services, discusses portable oxygen concentrators and the importance of knowing their limitations.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators Guide

According to Wiles, oxygen delivery is different in the home, where pulse delivery is used instead of continuous flow. Because of this, she feels patients need to understand the limitations of the available portable oxygen concentrators. For example, oxygen reservoir space varies with the size of portable oxygen concentrators.

Wiles believes portable oxygen concentrators allow “patients independence and freedom;” however, she emphasizes the importance of educating patients on the devices’ limitations.

“[Respiratory therapists] need to be able to advise their patients how to choose,” Wiles said.

Big Ideas Theater 2017 was filmed at the AARC Congress 2017 in Indianapolis, IN. Congress speakers and lecturers shared their expertise and insights during these brief interviews.

Congress 2018

Want to attend AARC Congress 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada Dec. 4-7? Register now and secure your spot!