Oxygen gas is one of the most essential medical gases((گاز طبی used in hospitals, clinics, and even home care. Stored in pressurized cylinders or as liquid oxygen(اکسیژن مایع) , it plays a life-saving role for patients suffering from respiratory issues, trauma, or during surgery. But despite its common use, handling oxygen cylinders safely and correctly remains a critical priority in healthcare settings. In this article, we offer a complete guide on how to use and store medical oxygen cylinders properly.

1. What Is Medical Oxygen and Who Needs It?

Medical oxygen is high-purity oxygen used specifically for medical treatment. It contains no contaminants or moisture and is typically administered to patients via nasal cannulas, face masks, or ventilators.

Common uses include:

• Respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma, pneumonia)
• Emergency resuscitation
• Post-surgical recovery
• COVID-19 treatment

Unlike industrial oxygen, medical-grade oxygen is strictly regulated and must meet pharmacopoeia standards for safety and purity.

2. Types of Oxygen Storage: Compressed vs. Liquid

There are two common forms of oxygen storage:

1. a) Compressed Oxygen Gas Cylinders

• Steel or aluminum tanks
• Filled at 2000–3000 psi
• Easy to transport and widely used in ambulances and hospital wards

1. b) Liquid Oxygen (LOX) Systems

• Stored at extremely low temperatures (−183°C)
• Occupies less space and provides more volume
• Ideal for large hospitals or long-term home therapy

Each type has unique storage and handling requirements, but both must be handled with the same high standards of safety.

3. Safe Handling Practices

Handling oxygen cylinders improperly can lead to dangerous situations such as leaks, fires, or even explosions. Here are basic safety rules every medical staff or caregiver should follow:

• Always store cylinders in upright position with valve caps on
• Keep oxygen away from heat, sparks, and flammable materials
• Use clean hands and oil-free tools when handling valves or regulators
• Never smoke near oxygen cylinders
• Ensure proper labeling and color coding for medical oxygen (usually green or white)

4. Storage Guidelines

Correct storage is essential to maintain both safety and performance:

• Store in well-ventilated, dry areas
• Secure cylinders to a wall or cart to prevent tipping
• Keep storage rooms away from combustible materials
• Rotate stock (FIFO: First In, First Out) to ensure timely usage before expiration
• Maintain regular inspection schedules for leaks, damage, and expiry dates

5. Training and Emergency Protocols

Staff and caregivers should be trained in:

• How to read pressure gauges
• Switching regulators safely
• Detecting leaks or abnormal sounds
• Responding to emergency shut-offs

Many hospitals also install oxygen monitors and alarm systems for early detection of leaks or pressure drops.

Conclusion

Medical oxygen is more than just a gas — it's a vital treatment tool. Proper storage and usage protocols ensure not only patient safety but also regulatory compliance. Whether in a hospital or home setting, knowledge and training are the keys to using oxygen gas (گاز اکسیژن) safely and effectively.

 Article Summary:

This article is a practical guide on how to safely use and store medical oxygen cylinders. It covers cylinder types, safety procedures, storage conditions, and training essentials for hospitals and home care.