What should be checked before beginning assembly of a portable medical oxygen delivery system?

Before beginning the assembly of a portable medical oxygen delivery system, it's essential to check that all components are free from rust, corrosion, or residues. This is crucial because any contaminants can compromise the functionality of the equipment and could pose safety risks. Rust or corrosion can weaken the integrity of the metal components, potentially leading to leaks or failure during use. Residues can interfere with the flow of oxygen and may even react negatively with the system materials, affecting performance. Ensuring cleanliness and proper condition of these components helps to guarantee a safe and effective oxygen delivery process to the patient.

While it's also important to check the oxygen regulator integrity, pressure gauge calibration, and the condition of the delivery tubing, those steps are typically secondary to ensuring that all components are clean and free from harmful residues, as cleanliness is fundamental to safety and functionality in medical environments.