Pulse vs. Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators

The difference between pulse dose and continuous flow oxygen concentrators is not only the intensity of the dose, but in the function of the concentrator as a whole. Oxygen concentrators must be prescribed, so if your physician prescribed a high amount of oxygen per minute, it’s up to you to find a concentrator that can meet your needs, whether it be a continuous flow oxygen concentrator or a pulse dose.

If you were prescribed a high LPM (liters per minute) of oxygen, then that usually means that your need for oxygen therapy is vital, and a continuous flow oxygen concentrator may be your best option. However, pulse dose oxygen concentrators are also effective in delivering a high LPM.

Pulse Dose

First, let’s define pulse dose. Pulse dose refers to the delivery of oxygen during inhalation. Newer oxygen concentrators are advanced enough to detect when a breath is taken, and oxygen is administered with each breath.

Here are some important things to remember when considering a pulse dose oxygen concentrator:

Pulse dose oxygen concentrators are usually lightweight and easy to travel with.
It’s best to rent a pulse dose oxygen concentrator before you purchase one.
Pulse dose oxygen concentrators measure output based on a scale of intensity (usually 1- 10). Patients must find a setting that works for them and meets their requirements for a certain level of LPM.

The most common prescribed dosage of oxygen is 2 liters-per-minute, which can be administered by both pulse and continuous flow oxygen concentrators. Finding the level that works for you is essential.

Continuous Flow

Continuous flow oxygen concentrators are constantly administering oxygen. All home oxygen concentrators can function at a continuous rate of flow. Here are some important things to remember when thinking of purchasing continuously flow oxygen concentrators:

There is no need to worry about damaging the device with continuous use. Continuous flow oxygen concentrators are built to provide oxygen constantly, all day and all night, for long periods of time.
Your prescription will only tell you how many liters per minute you need. It’s up to you to decide if you want a pulse dose or continuous flow oxygen concentrator.
Continuous flow oxygen concentrators work a lot harder than pulse dose concentrators and some patients need that intensity, especially patients who need oxygen when they sleep.

Find the Perfect Oxygen Concentrator for You

Once you have received the oxygen prescription from your physician, you must choose a concentrator that suites your lifestyle, budget and health needs best.

Oxygen Always offers 3 devices have the function of both a pulse dose and continuous flow oxygen concentrator, allowing the user to find a level and setting they are comfortable with while also receiving the level of oxygen they were prescribed.

Oxygen Always also provides oxygen concentrator rentals, which allows you to test a concentrator before you purchase it. Feel free to call us directly to discuss your option without any obligation to buy: 888-710-1950.