CPAP
CPAP Use and Operation
Putting it all together...
Here is a step by step review of the operation of our Whisperflow CPAP device. Remember this is only a review!! If you have any doubts about the operation of this unit seek proper training before use.
Properly assess patient including baseline pulse-ox
Prepare mask,
strap rearrangement might be necessary.
Assemble mask and tubing, don't forget to place the filter on air intake of the CPAP device
Attach high pressure hose to portable tank using short adapter hose. It may be best to load the patient first and start CPAP early in the transport: conserves portable tank for ER transfer.
Have the patient place the mask on his face tightly. Some "coaching" will help the patient transition from holding the mask near their face to creating a seal. It's OK for the patient to hold the mask without using the straps if they're more comfortable that way. When he is comfortable with the feeling of the mask you may secure it to his head tightly so that no leaks are noticed.
Explain the procedure to the patient. Then turn the unit on (all the way) and turn the FLOW on (all the way)
Next you'll need to fine-tune the unit by decreasing the FLOW until a slight outward flow is felt while the patient inhales.
You can easily add nebulized albuterol to the patient's treatment by cutting the tubing at a joint and inserting a 'T' and nebulizer with 6 liters oxygen attached.
After loading the patient to the unit you'll need to transfer to the onboard oxygen. Do it quickly - turn on the main first!
By using the patient's pulse-ox level as a guide you may adjust the amount of oxygen up to achieve desired oxygen saturation, usually 90 -93%.
A few things to remember...
- When the flow valve is open all the way, with the oxygen valve closed, your giving the patient 28% oxygen and a portable tank will last quite some time!
- By increasing the oxygen flow, you'll use more liters per minute - as much as 140! Be careful, you'll run out!
- If you reach the point that air is blowing out of the air intake on the device your oxygen flow is too high.
- When swapping from portable to main oxygen tanks warn the patient that the flow will stop for a few seconds but they will still be able to breathe, then swap quickly!
