What is CPAP machine?How it is important in home healthcare.

The full form of CPAP machine is continuous positive airway machine.This is most commonly used for sleep apnea disorders.

Sleep apnea means when patient is having problem in sleep due to some kind of temporary blockage in throat.In this procedure continuous pressure air is send though Nose, so that there is steady flow of air.

This steady flow helps patient to breathe uninterrupted during night.

What are the different types of CPAP masks.

Nasal pillow mask. This type of mask usually covers nostril area.

While using this mask patient can wear glasses or if any patient have facial hairs this mask is very helpful in those cases.

Nasal mask. This mask covers full nose area.The major benefit of using this mask is it gives high pressure comparatively.

Moreover it does not easily displace if patient take turns while sleeping.

Full mask. This type of the mask covers mouth and nose.It is recommended for those patients who have the habit of breathing through mouth while sleeping.

Some cons of using CPAP machine.

 We have discussed about the various benefits of using this machine but at the same time there are some side-effects also.

• Patients who are in continuous habit of using this machine feel thirsty or dry mouth after using it.
• Some patients have very sensitive skin. Continuous touch of this mask with their facial skin may produce skin irritation.
• Sleep disturbance is very common because they feel that something has tied around their face which is very uncomfortable for them.

How home healthcare service providers are helpful in using this machine with their patients.

• Vital signs and monitoring is very important, patient caretaker can keep a record of any fluctuations.
• Medical attendant psychological counselling to a patient can be important factor for motivation.
• Proper fitting of facial mask is essential otherwise it can be a source of irritation.Medical personal whosoever is with patient have full knowledge of using it an its functions.
• We know that dry mouth is a common after effect of CPAP that’s why keeping patient hydrated is important.