NCLEX-RNSafety and Infection Prevention and ControlMedium
A nurse is caring for a client with a new prescription for continuous oxygen therapy via nasal cannula at 3 L/min. The client's spouse expresses concern about the safety of having oxygen in the home. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to provide to the spouse regarding home oxygen safety?
- AHave a 'No Smoking' sign prominently displayed in the home.
- BAvoid using petroleum-based products on the client's face.
- CEnsure the oxygen tank is kept in a cool, dry place.
- DKeep all electrical appliances at least 5 feet away from the oxygen source.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Have a 'No Smoking' sign prominently displayed in the home.
Oxygen is a highly combustible gas that greatly increases the risk of fire. Smoking or open flames are the most significant ignition sources. Therefore, prominently displaying 'No Smoking' signs unequivocally communicates the most critical safety precaution to prevent a fire.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Petroleum-based products can cause skin irritation or burns in the presence of oxygen, but fire from an ignition source is a more immediate and severe danger.
- C. While good practice for storage, this is not the most immediate and critical fire safety concern for in-use oxygen.
- D. Maintaining distance from electrical appliances is important, but open flames (smoking) pose a much greater and more direct fire risk with oxygen.
Home Oxygen Safety
Essential precautions to prevent fire and injury when using supplemental oxygen in a home environment.
- Oxygen is highly combustible.
- No smoking or open flames nearby.
- Keep oxygen tanks upright and secured.
Memory trick: Oxygen's Hot, No Smoking's the Spot!