Hapetusvirittäjä

Hapetusvirittäjä, also known as an oxygen regulator, is a medical device used to control the flow of oxygen to a patient. It is typically connected to an oxygen tank or a wall oxygen supply and allows healthcare professionals to adjust the oxygen delivery rate according to the patient's specific needs. These devices are crucial for providing supplemental oxygen therapy, which is essential for individuals suffering from various respiratory conditions such as pneumonia, COPD, or during surgical procedures.

The primary function of a hapetusvirittäjä is to deliver oxygen at a precise and consistent rate, measured in liters per minute (LPM). Most regulators feature a flow meter, often a glass or plastic tube with a float ball, that indicates the current oxygen flow. They also include a pressure gauge to monitor the oxygen pressure within the tank or supply line. Safety features, such as pressure relief valves, are incorporated to prevent over-pressurization. Proper understanding and operation of a hapetusvirittäjä are vital for ensuring patient safety and the effectiveness of oxygen therapy. Different types of regulators exist, including those with built-in humidifiers to warm and moisten the oxygen before it is inhaled, thus preventing dryness and irritation of the respiratory passages.