What is the difference between continuous and pulse flow oxygen?
Continuous oxygen is an uninterrupted supply of oxygen that can be supplied by nose cannula, face mask or in conjunction with most other breathing devices. Continuous oxygen devices are often operated by AC mains supplies ad provide reliable oxygen 24 hours a day. In most cases patients are best using this method of oxygen delivery when sleeping or resting. Pulse flow oxygen is delivered on activation of breathing and is commonly known as ‘pulse on demand’. Oxygen is delivered via a nose cannula only and supply short doses of oxygen on inhalation. Modern portable concentrators can detect when a patient is going to breathe and releases the required amount of oxygen. These devices are often very lightweight and can supply oxygen over a long period of time, making them ideal for day to day activities and travelling.
The difference between continuous oxygen and pulse flow is that continuous oxygen has an uninterrupted supply of oxygen. Continous oxygen is typically supplied by face mask, nose cannula or in conjunction with other breathing devices whereas pulse flow is ONLY supplied by nose cannula.
Continuous oxygen devices are typically operated by AC power and provide oxygen non stop 24 hours a day. Pulse flow oxygen is not continuous and is delivered on activation of breathing with short doses of oxygen supplied on inhalation. Modern pulse flow portable concentrators detect when a patient is going to breathe and release an amount of oxygen on demand. Pulse flow devices are typically very lightweight and can supply oxygen over a long period of time versus the continous oxygen ones are heavier. Pulse flow is better for traveling and day to day activities while continous devices are more for sleeping or resting.
