Many covid survivors discharged from hospitalization will require supplemental oxygen 24/7 to support breathing and reduce respiratory distress. In my case I was discharged when I could demonstrate I could sustain a 90% blood oxygen level as monitored by a finger oximeter. The hospital discharge nurse contacted a local supplier who delivered 4 tanks containing a 5 hour supply at 2. They also delivered a concentrator and 50 and 75 foot lines with cannula to feed me oxygen through my nose. The tanks are to be used for movements away from the home or in the home and as a back up in case of power out age. I found the tanks reduced my anxiety and stress more than the line. Something about being tethered to a machine and dragging a life supporting 75 foot line seemed scary. A number of times the line got caught or tangled and an alarm would go off on the concentrator to warn us. Over time I have adapted and rather than drag the line carry it as a lariat by my side. As I move I play out line and recover it. This helped reduce the anxiety. The goal over time is to sustain a 90% or better oxygen level while increasing activity and reduce the oxygen flow and distress. I had to go back to 5 L the first few days and gradually to 4 L then 3 L. On March 1st I am at 2 L. The seemingly slow rate of progress can wear on the patient and caregivers. To mitigate this we gave thanks and rejoiced in even the smallest gain.
