I’m a home care RN, multiple clients on home oxygen. None have complained re heat or power useage. They do get a disability tax credit of 8k per year.
Our 9-5 job titles are the same!
I get your concern and can also say these days probably it isn’t a big deal. I go to Physical Therapy in the water and some people have their oxygen on the side of the pool and really long tubes that we just go under or whatever. And, these days they make a lot of portable options.
Here is where I might ask them about it; Why did they want to bring it up? I would probably try to think of a way to politely ask if they had certain concerns about anything. I totally get your concern - and it seems like they must have thought there was a reason to bring it up. Those concerns could be (well, anything!). These days in my experience, oxygen isn’t a big deal. But maybe it was the first time the family traveled with their family member and they didn’t know how to do stuff either. Maybe it could be a serious health issue. It could be anything but talking it through would help although I see that you have already solved that.
When my mom had her first stroke, everything was so brand new. I didn’t know if a bandage would be wrong. I made lots of mistakes along the way. The family may be brand new to dealing with their loved one’s issue. It is really scarey until you get used to things.
I know I also wanted to take my mom some places and we did and she loved it. It sounds like you just need more information. You can say, “I haven’t had this situation come up before, are you needing special accomodations?. I want to make sure I can provide what you need…” or something like that! Again, new to this site so I am still getting used to replaying. Communication will work and can be apprecaited by both sides. Then, if you can’t do it, you have an out.
Just want to say what a great, well-articulated and thoughtful reply. This forum tends to focus on the bad side of hosting - it’s inevitable when you’re asking for advice. Your point about the importance of communication is important, particularly in a home-share situation.
Fascinating that we have two experts with differing opinions. LOL.
Thank you so much. Now I will try to learn to type. I do know how to spell
I do appreciate you emailing me though - Thanks. Claudia
@karmaCasa. Fascinating that we have two experts with differing opinions. LOL.
It’s ok that two RNs have different opiinions. I’m an RN too. Older oxygen concentrators tend to be larger & generate heat. The newer smaller (especially the portable models) are energy efficient and produce minimal heat. It’s about the type of equipment & portability.
The originator of this thread did the correct thing by asking the guest for clarification of needs.
We had an older person stay with us who was oxygen dependent. There is no need for you to be concerned…she wants to go on vacation with her family too.
In fact, we had to accept delivery at our own home of the oxygen equipment and have it ready for pick-up after they left. Was it an inconvenience - maybe a little - but that’s our business. We go over and above to make sure our guests’ vacation is the best it can be. That can mean washing with special detergents for those with allergies, having extra baby stuff/toys available for the littlest guests and yes, even accepting delivery of oxygen equipment.