Equipment Overview

Parts of your mask:

Knowing what the different parts of your mask are called can be very helpful when contacting your home care when you need supplies. There are 4 basic parts to a mask:

Headgear

• The straps that hold the mask to your head while sleeping
• Often have Velcro straps or magnetic clips to attach or adjust for fit

Cushion /Pillows

• The soft part of the mask that touches your face (if nasal/full face masks)
• The soft pillows that go into the nose (if nasal pillows)

Frame

• The hard, durable part that the cushion will fit into securely
• Attaches to the headgear

Elbow

• The elbow piece will connect to the frame and hose allowing for the pressure to be delivered through the cushion
• There is a small exhalation port that works as a vent for the mask where air can be felt leaving the mask

Parts of your machine:

Your PAP machine as a unit also has a few different pieces and knowing the names can be useful when trying to troubleshoot any issues or requesting replacement parts if needed

Motor

• The main part of the machine that works to pressurize room air

Humidification Chamber

• Holds distilled water to add moisture to the pressurized air
• Can have a heating element that adds heat to the moisturized air for added comfort

Connection hose/tubing

• Connects the PAP machine to the mask
• Flexible with rubber fittings on the ends for a secure fit to the machine and mask

Filter (Disposable or Non-Disposable)

• Filters that work to remove any particles in the air prior to delivering it to your PAP mask such as dust, pollen, smoke, or pet dander/hair
• Disposable
  • Made of a paper like material
  • Cannot be washed
• Non-disposable
  • Typically made of foam
  • Can be washed and reused

Replacement Schedules:

Insurance companies frequently follow a “schedule” of when masks, parts of masks or other supplies can be changed out or replaced.

The following sample is only an example *Please check with your specific insurance company or home care company for your supply schedule*

 

Full Face Cushion	1 per month
Disposable Filter	2 per month
Replaceable Pillow or Cushions	2 per month
Mask Frame	1 every 3 months (4 Times a Year)
Tubing	1 every 3 months (4 Times a Year)
Non-Disposable Filter	1 every 6 months (Twice yearly)
Headgear	1 every 6 months (Twice yearly)
Humidification Chamber	1 every 6 months (Twice yearly)
Chin Strap	1 every 6 months (Twice yearly)

Cleaning Tips

Daily Cleaning

• Mask Cushion: Wash/rinse with mild soap and warm water, let air dry
• Humidifier Chamber: Rinse and let air dry-it is important to let this dry to keep mold from forming

Weekly Cleaning

• Mask Frame: Wash/rinse with mild soap and warm water, let air dry
• Headgear: Wash with mild soap by hand in sink, let air dry
• Tubing/hose: Wash/rinse with mild soap and warm water, hang to let air dry