Resmed PEI Patient Podcast

Wearables and Fitness Trackers have become really popular in recent years. As well as all fitness related data, these now capture a sleep data also. We regularly get asked if these are a suitable tool for measuring your sleep apnoea events. This episode considers the use of Wearables and Fitness Trackers for Sleep Measurement.

It should be noted from the outset that wearables and fitness trackers are not medical devices. Some of these do measure sleep in an overall context. This should not be confused however with the measurement of sleep apnoea events. This is where your CPAP device comes in. The two measurements are not the same. When considering sleep apnoea, you should always refer to your CPAP device for this measurement and result.

Wearables and fitness trackers are really useful and of course can be used in parallel with your CPAP device, but never rely on these for pure CPAP data. You will only get this information from your CPAP device. This is the score that is shown on your myPatientSpace app.

Your CPAP device is loaded with useful features and settingswhich make your treatment more comfortable and/or more appropriate to you. Many of these settings are found within the My Options Menu.

This episode considers how to access this menu and what settings you can change, and why you might do this. This includes a wide range of comfort settings, such as ramp time, humidity, pressure relief, mask type, airplane mode and mask fit test. Many of these settings have been addressed in previousepisodes of our podcast. These settings are very easily changed. Just note what the previous setting was in case you want to revert to that. As always, just reach out if you have any questions.

From time to time every patient can experience an issue with their power supply where a device simply won’t switch on.

This is no different to any electrical device, and most of the troubleshooting tips are similar.

This episode explores power troubleshooting advice if you are experiencing any issues with your device. This includes all the usual suggestions, such as to check that all cables are connected properly, to try a different power outlet in your home, and to check your device and all cables for damage.

If these fixes don’t work for you, or if your device is making funny noise, please reach out to us for additional advice or support.

It is not uncommon for patients to wake up with marks on their face after treatment. This is often associated with masks being too tight, or just the pressure of lying on a mask strap during the night.

Sometimes, however, patients experience even more severe skin issues or breakouts while on therapy. This can be for a whole range of reasons, but is commonly linked to sensitive skin or an underlying skin issue.

This episode explores looking after your skin and skin issues associated with treatment. Everyone’s skin is different, so we would urge you to contact us so that we can consider your issues and the best solutions suitable to your treatment, whether that is the use of a different mask; the use of pads, liners or strap covers, or to explore additional remedies so that you can continue your CPAP journey.

If you pay for your CPAP device or mask privately or as part of the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) this episode is for you. The episode considers a selection of the most common Account Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), such as Can I apply for a DPS Card Online? Can I submit multiple claims at the same time? Where can I find an invoice if I’ve mislaid one? If I’ve fallen into arrears on my account and pay a double or treble month, how do I process my DPS claim? If I’ve forgotten to submit my DPS claim for some time, can I still process a claim? Is there a date limit on this? This episode answers these and many other questions.

If you pay for your CPAP device or mask privately or as part of the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) this episode is for you. The episode explains how invoicing works and when/where you can access your monthly invoices.

It also explains how the Drug Payment Scheme (DPS) works and how you can claim a refund under the scheme. If you are paying more than €80 per month on medications, then you are probably due a refund. The episode also provides useful contact information in case you need to reach out to the DPS directly, and the paperwork you need to complete sign up to the service.

Your Climate Line Tubing connects your device to your maskand plays a very important role in keeping the air warm during treatment.

Maintenance of the tubing is important  Cleaning your tubing removes germs, mould, and dust that can build up from your breath and room air.

This episode considers the importance of the Climate Line tubing, when and how to clean it and the importance of drying it properly once this is done.

Cleaning your CPAP mask is essential to prevent bacterial growth, avoid skin infections, maintain a proper mask seal, and extend the lifespan of your equipment.

It is equally important to clean the elbow that connects your mask to your tubing as this acts as the mechanical bridge for airflow and movement. Neglecting the elbow joint directly threatens your safety and the accuracy of your therapy.

This episode considers the importance of cleaning both your mask and elbow, how you should do this and how often you should do it.

The Humidifier Tub that sits at the side of your machine plays an important comfort role in your CPAP therapy. Water added tothe tub is heated up and gently adds moisture to the air to counteract the dryness of air generated by the device, thus making treatment more pleasant.

This episode considers what the humidifier tub is, what is does, what water to add to it and how to get the best out of your tub over time.

Your Mask Marking Your Face is an extremely common occurrence. Patients regularly call our Nurse Help Line saying they are very happy with their mask, but that they wake up with marks on their face. This is not only unsightly but can also be quite sore and sometimes leads to headaches. This episode considers the occurrence of Mask Marking Your Face, and how to reduce the chance of this happening.