MEDICATIONS: Some medications are not compatible with hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Each drug you are taking will be considered individually in relation to HBO therapy. Any changes in your current medication will be discussed with your referring physician.
SMOKING: Patients who smoke are required to stop smoking throughout their course of hyperbaric therapy. Patients who are unable to discontinue smoking will not be considered as suitable candidates for HBO therapy.
COLDS AND OTHER SYMPTOMS: It is important that you notify the nursing or hyperbaric staff if you have symptoms of a cold or the flu, i.e. fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever blisters, cold sore, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, ache-all-over feeling. These types of illnesses are not helped by oxygen, so HBO treatments may be postponed until your symptoms have subsided.
COSMETICS: Cosmetics, hair sprays, nail polish, deodorants, or shaving lotions containing a petroleum or alcohol base are not allowed during hyperbaric oxygen treatments. However you may apply these products after treatment. Please discuss any skin care products you wish to use with our staff so that we can help assure your safety.
CLOTHING: You will be provided with a 100 percent cotton gown before your treatment. Articles containing nylon or polyester should not be worn in the chamber. Watches and other jewelry must be removed. Dentures, contact lenses and other prosthetic devices may need to be removed before treatment. Rings may be taped if they are difficult to remove. Check with the hyperbaric staff regarding these requirements.
SCHEDULING: The hyperbaric staff will schedule your treatments on a daily basis. Every effort will be made to consider your other activities of daily living. There may be times when your appointment will be cancelled or postponed due to an emergency situation. If you are an outpatient and find that you are unable to keep an appointment, please notify the hyperbaric staff as soon as possible at (816) 943-4600. Patients should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled treatment time.