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PAP mask and equipment

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
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