Page 39 - Norco Patient Orientation Handbook e-book
P. 39
Note: Position the CPAP/BiPAP machine on a stand that is lower than the patient’s head to prevent
accidental tipping as well as accumulation of condensation in the tubing.
Cleaning/Maintenance/Troubleshooting
Wash the mask by hand daily in warm soapy water (liquid soap). Rinse well and let air-dry.
Wash 6 ft. CPAP tubing by hand once per week in warm soapy water (liquid soap). Rinse well and let air-
dry.
Change disposable filter monthly. Wash reusable filters monthly by hand in warm soapy water (liquid soap).
Rinse well and let air-dry prior to reuse.
Wash the headgear by hand as needed. Rinse well and let air-dry.
For humidifier tray/chambers: wash/soak in a 1:3 white vinegar/water solution for 30 minutes once per
week. Rinse and let air dry.
Discuss troubleshooting of upper airway irritation with humidifier/hydration techniques.
Discuss mask/face fitting troubleshooting and solutions if not snug or remains uncomfortable.
If error codes occur or CPAP/BiPAP unit fails prematurely, contact Norco.
Explain that a replacement mask/headgear may be obtained using the schedule listed on the next page.
CPAP OR BiPAP Troubleshooting Guide
If you are having problems with your equipment contact your local Norco branch for assistance.
The mask is the most important part of your CPAP/BiPAP system. It does not matter what the machine can
do if the mask does not fit properly. Contact Norco to help you troubleshoot any mask interface problems.
Masks usually last 3 to 6 months. A mask may look acceptable but needs to be replaced. If you had a good
seal but now are having problems getting that seal your mask may need to be replaced.
If you are having problems with a runny nose or allergy like symptoms, check your filters. A clean filter
may help eliminate these symptoms and help to protect the machine.
MEDICARE CUSTOMERS: You must use pap≥ 4 hours per night on 70% of nights during a consecutive
30 day period during the first 3 months of initial usage and they must have a face-to-face clinical re-
evaluation by the treating physician with documentation that symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are
improved.
PROBLEM POSSIBLE REASON(S) SOLUTION(S) WHO TO CONTACT
Pressure seems too high Not used to exhaling against pressure 9 Practice breathing on Norco
CPAP/BiPAP prior to sleep with
slow deep breaths.
9 Add ramp feature
9 Add exhalation comfort mode
Nasal congestion and or dry 1. Inadequate humidity 9 Increase humidity or add heated Norco
mouth 2. Open mouth humidifier
3. Air leak 9 Use chin strap
9 Full face mask
Water in tubing 1. Increased condensation due to cold 9 Increase room temp Norco
room temp & warm air in tubing 9 Decrease humidifier setting
2. Heated humidifier set too high 9 Insulate CPAP/BiPAP tubing
Nasal/sinus pressure, ear pain 1. Reaction to air flow 9 Use heated humidity Norco
or runny nose 2. Sinus infection 9 Inhaled nasal steroid Your Physician
3. Nasal congestion 9 Change/wash CPAP filters
Sore on face or nose from 1. Mask is too tight 9 Contact Norco Customer Service Norco
mask 2. Incorrect mask size Representative or Respiratory
3. Mask is worn; needs replacing. Therapist
4. Allergic reaction to mask
