N E W S

Vol 15, No. 4       LINCARE is a National Supplier of Home
Fall '04          Oxygen and Respiratory Therapy Services

Breathing Control

Stair Climbing

Climbing stairs is work. YOU CAN DO IT, but take your time and go slowly.

Use hand rails for balance and stability, DO NOT PULL yourself up the stairs.

Before you attempt the first step, take a slow deep breath in through your nose for two counts.

As you step up, exhale through pursed-lips.

Stop with both feet on the step and breathe in while standing still. · Exhale with each step up.

Inhale while standing still.

Practice until it becomes automatic.

The holidays are coming and before you attempt to take your oxygen system out of your home and into the sky, talk over your plans with your physician or therapist and your LINCARE center; they can make your travels easier and safer.

The use of Oxygen Portable equipment aboard commercial aircraft is not permitted. However, many airlines are prepared to provide oxygen for you while you are on board their aircraft. The policies of the various air carriers on providing supplemental oxygen service are not all alike. Virtually all airlines do require at least 24 hours advance notice and levy a charge for the oxygen service

Typical airline requirements are:

1. Advance Notice: 24 hours to one week before boarding

2. Prescription Required: quantity of oxygen and flow rate; most require flow rate adjusted for cabin pressure used by that airline

3. Doctor's Release Required: should include diagnosis and release with approval for air travel; special forms may be necessary. Be sure to have several copies of completed forms with you

4. Service Charges typically vary per flight; connecting flights usually involve charges for each ticket coupon. Some charge by number of cylinders used

5. Some airlines require patient to be accompanied by friend or relative

6. Most airlines permit carrying of empty personal oxygen equipment as baggage, some do not.

Be sure to check with the airline to verify their policies on each of these points. Ask for the telephone number of the airline's "Air Medical Department" or "Special Services" usually located at the airline's home office.

In addition to arranging for oxygen service aboard the aircraft, you will also need to arrange for supplying your oxygen needs before flight time, during any layover for connecting flights, and after arrival at your destination. Your LINCARE center can assist you with these details and may be able to meet you at the airport gate with a portable unit and also set up a concentrator or reservoir at your lodging.

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