How aware are COPD patients of their choices in oxygen equipment?
Fiore: The average COPD patient is totally in the dark when it comes to portable oxygen delivery devices and systems. The need for supplementary oxygen is, in itself, a tremendous emotional shock, and the patient is often at the mercy of their provider. A good number are sent home from the hospital with an “E” tank and are under the impression that they will be have to deal with this cumbersome equipment as long as they require supplemental oxygen.
