There are various devices that can be used for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. These devices blow air at a single continuous pressure into your child’s airway through a mask. Children are often prescribed CPAP therapy because they have obstructive sleep apnea or heart failure.
Adjusting settings while using a CPAP device
This video will provide an overview of the different settings that can be adjusted when using a CPAP device. Watch the video to learn more about:
- Starting and stopping the device. Please note that holding the start/stop button will start a mask fit test.
- Getting to the Options menu. First press the home button to take you to the main menu. Then use the dial or the touch screen to select the Options menu.
- The Ramp setting. This allows you to adjust how long it takes until the prescribed pressure is reached. This starts the CPAP at a lower pressure and will slowly increase it over the set period of time until the prescribed pressure is reached. This way your child can fall asleep at a lower, more comfortable pressure. If your child feels there is too much air and cannot fall asleep, you can lengthen the ramp time. If your child feels there is not enough air, you can shorten or turn off the ramp time.
- The climate control option. If you have a heated tube this allows you to adjust the humidity setting and the tubing temperature. When set to automatic, you are able to adjust the humidity setting and it will adjust the water chamber and tubing temperature together. When set to manual, you are able to adjust the humidity and tubing temperature independently. If you do not have a heated tube, there will just be one setting to control the water chamber temperature. You may need to adjust your humidity throughout the year.
If you find condensation in the tubing or mask, the tubing temperature should be increased. If you are at the maximum temperature, the humidity setting should be decreased. If you do not have a heated tube, you may use a towel or tube insulator to wrap around the tubing to help keep the tube warm.
- Other settings:
- Pressure Relief. Talk to your child’s sleep medicine team to see if this is appropriate for your child.
- Talk to your child’s sleep medicine team to see if this is appropriate for your child.
- If your child has more than one type of mask, you can adjust the mask setting to nasal pillow, nasal or full face.
- Mask fit. This option can be used to check your child’s mask fit before starting therapy.
- Warm up. Use this option to pre-heat the water chamber and heated tubing before starting therapy.
Device maintenance
How to clean and maintain tubing
Tubing is to be hand cleaned on weekly basis using a mild detergent and rinsed well with fresh water. Inspect for damage and replace as needed. Hang tube to dry and avoid direct sunlight or heat. Replace tubing every 6 months.
How to clean the humidifier chamber
The humidifier chamber or water pot needs to be rinsed daily and cleaned weekly. Most are washed using mild soap and water. Please consult your child’s health-care provider and the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific device.
How to clean and maintain the filter
Different devices have reusable and or disposable filters. Reusable filters are meant to be washed and replaced periodically. Disposable filters are not to be washed and need to be replaced frequently. Please consult with your child’s health-care provider and the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific device.
How to clean the ventilator exterior
Wipe the exterior of the device with a damp cloth and mild soap.