1. CONFIRM ZERO FLOW AND INSPECT THE REGULATOR: Set the Flow Control Knob to "0" before handling any cylinder. Visually inspect the entire regulator body for cracks, dents, debris, or contamination, paying specific attention to any oil or grease, which creates an explosive hazard in an oxygen-enriched environment.
2. INSPECT AND CONFIRM THE YOKE WASHER: Verify the Bodok seal (yoke washer) is seated at the inlet port, clean, pliable, and free of cracks or deformity. This is the most common failure point on the regulator and a missing or compromised washer will result in a high-pressure leak at connection.
3. CRACK THE CYLINDER VALVE: Remove the protective cap from the cylinder valve post, then briefly open and close the cylinder valve to expel any dust or debris from the port. Point the valve port away from all personnel during this step.
4. SEAT THE YOKE AND SECURE THE CONNECTION: Align the yoke pins with the corresponding holes on the cylinder valve and slide the yoke down until fully seated. Hand-tighten the T-Handle securing screw until snug. No tools are to be used, as over-tightening with tools can damage the yoke or cylinder valve.
5. PRESSURIZE AND VERIFY SEAL INTEGRITY: Position the regulator so the valve is not directed at any personnel, then slowly open the cylinder valve one full counterclockwise turn. Listen immediately for continuous hissing, which indicates a leak. If a leak is detected, close the cylinder valve, bleed residual pressure, inspect and reseat the yoke washer, and reattempt before proceeding.
6. CONFIRM CYLINDER PRESSURE: Read the pressure gauge (0–3000 PSI range). A full cylinder reads approximately 2000–2200 PSI. Use the available pressure reading to calculate run-time at the intended flow rate before committing to patient care.
7. SET FLOW RATE AND CONNECT DELIVERY DEVICE: Rotate the Flow Control Knob to the medically directed rate. For a hypoxic patient requiring high-concentration oxygen, this is typically 15 LPM via non-rebreather mask. Attach patient delivery device tubing to the Hose Barb Outlet.
8. CONNECT ADVANCED AIRWAY DEVICES IF REQUIRED: If assisted ventilation is indicated, connect the demand valve or positive-pressure ventilator to one of the two threaded DISS outlets. The internal check valves on these ports allow device switching without interrupting flow to other connected devices.
9. APPLY DELIVERY DEVICE AND MONITOR PATIENT RESPONSE: Place the delivery device on the patient and assess response to oxygen therapy. Adjust flow rate per protocol and medical direction. Monitor cylinder pressure continuously to anticipate supply depletion.
10. EXECUTE SYSTEM TAKEDOWN: Close the cylinder valve completely by turning clockwise until it stops. Leave the Flow Control Knob open to bleed all residual pressure from the system until the gauge reads zero and flow ceases completely. Return the knob to "0", loosen the T-Handle screw, and remove the regulator from the cylinder.
11. DECONTAMINATE AND STORE: Wipe the exterior with a clean, dry cloth or an approved disinfectant wipe compatible with brass that leaves no residue. Confirm no moisture has entered any ports or openings, then store the regulator in a padded, protected compartment within a medical bag or case.