If you notice the oxygen tubing is kinked, what should you do?

• A. Untangle and straighten tubing to restore flow and check for skin irritation.
• B. Ignore it if resident seems comfortable.
• C. Pad the kink with padding.
• D. Move the oxygen tank away from resident.

Answer: (A)

Oxygen delivery depends on a clear, unobstructed path from the source to the patient. When tubing is kinked, flow is blocked or reduced, which can deprive tissues of the oxygen they need and worsen breathing. The best action is to gently untangle and straighten the tubing to restore a smooth, continuous flow. As you do this, check the tubing’s route for twists that could kink again and make sure it isn’t pulling on a nose piece or mask. After restoring flow, inspect the skin where the tubing rests for irritation or pressure points and adjust placement to minimize skin injury. Also confirm the oxygen device settings and ensure the tubing is positioned safely, not under the patient or in a way that could re-kink. Do not ignore a kink or try to pad it, and moving the tank away does not fix the underlying flow issue.