What to rent for COPD care at home

What care at home usually involves

COPD is a long-term lung condition. Care at home follows the plan of the chest doctor who looks after the person: their medicines and inhalers, any oxygen or breathing machine the doctor prescribes, gentle activity, and follow-up visits.

The equipment in this guide supports that plan. It does not replace the doctor's advice, and each device is used as the doctor or care team advises.

Oxygen at home

Oxygen is used at home only when the doctor prescribes it. The prescription gives the flow rate (litres per minute) and how many hours a day it is needed; the technician sets the concentrator to it at delivery.

Please don't change the flow yourself. If the person seems to need more or less oxygen, ask the doctor.

Our guide to using a concentrator safely covers where to place it, keeping flames away, and what to do if an alarm sounds.

Breathing support machines

A BiPAP or CPAP machine blows air through a mask at the pressures the doctor sets. We rent one only with the doctor's prescription, and the technician sets the machine to the pressures written on it.

• The mask should sit snugly without hurting. If it leaks, rubs or leaves marks, tell us: the technician can help with the fit or bring another size.
• Clean the mask and tubing as the technician shows you.
• Never change the pressure settings yourself; ask the doctor.

Helping them sit up and rest

Many people with breathlessness are more comfortable sitting up. A motorised hospital bed raises the back at the touch of a button, so the person can change position without waiting for help.

Ask the doctor or nurse how upright the person should be at night.

Getting around

Short walks may be part of the doctor's or physiotherapist's plan. For longer trips, such as hospital visits, a foldable wheelchair saves effort and fits in most cars.

Questions to ask before you leave the hospital

• Is oxygen needed at home? If so, at what flow, for how many hours a day, and during sleep or activity?
• Is a BiPAP or CPAP machine needed? Please give us the prescription with the machine and its pressures.
• Which changes mean we should call you, and which mean we should call 108?
• When is the next appointment, and whom do we call with questions in between?
• Can we have the prescriptions in writing? We need them before delivery.

How long to rent

Rent month by month. You can extend from My rentals or by calling us, and book a pickup when you no longer need the equipment.

Returning it early? Rent is paid per month in advance and the month you are in is not refunded. Your deposit is refunded as usual after pickup.