How to keep oxygen safe from fire
Other platforms explain it with text and video. In VMS you practice it on the patient.
Oxygen makes fires start more easily and burn hotter. Simple safety rules prevent burns and fires in hospitals and homes.
Step by step
No smoking or flames
No smoking, candles or gas stoves near oxygen. Post a sign on the door. [1]
Avoid oil-based products
Do not use petroleum jelly on the face or nose. Use water-based lubricants. [2]
Keep away from heat
Keep oxygen at least several feet from heaters and electrical sparks. [2]
Store tanks safely
Secure tanks upright in a holder or cart so they cannot fall. [2]
Check equipment
Look for damaged tubing, frayed cords and leaks. Turn off oxygen when not in use. [2]
Know the fire plan
Know where the shut-off valve and extinguisher are, and the steps for a fire. [1]
Teach home users
Explain the rules to the patient and family and check understanding. [3]
Common errors
- Smoking near oxygen.
- Using petroleum jelly with a nasal cannula.
- Leaving tanks unsecured.
Practice it in VMS
In VMS you do this on the patient, not on paper: every step goes on the checklist with a score, and in Teach mode Blocky tells you what comes next.
VMS cases that train this skill
Sources
- The Joint Commission, National Patient Safety Goals
- Open RN, Nursing Skills 2e (Chippewa Valley Technical College) (CC BY 4.0)
- AHRQ Health Literacy Universal Precautions Toolkit (Teach-Back)
Facts and steps follow The Joint Commission, National Patient Safety Goals. VMS is not affiliated with these organizations. Updated: 2026-10-11.