As you are introduced to your new respiratory equipment, you and your family will understandably have lots of questions. Our respiratory therapist will answer all your questions and provide hands-on training. Here are a few tips to help make sure your treatment is as healing and comfortable as possible.
Sleep Apnea Tips:
CPAP machines that are properly cared for can last up to five years, If yours is getting up there, or if you haven’t taken the best care of your machine, it may be time to have Absolute Respiratory Cares check your insurance for replacement options.- Set up a cleaning schedule for your CPAP/BIPAP supplies on your calendar. They can build up mold and bacteria that can make you ill. We even sell supplies to make cleaning easier.
- If your CPAP mask or straps do not fit you properly, don’t stop using them. contact ABSOLUTE RESPIRATORY CARE about exchanging them so you will remain compliant with your therapy.
Nebulizer Tips:
- If someone in your family is suffering with a breathing problem that has been previously diagnosed and has been given medication to use in a nebulizer, it is recommended that you record the date and time of the treatments and the results. This will be helpful to the physician to determine the degree of illness and the next treatment steps to take.
- Remember to adhere to the frequency instructions given by your physician.
- Clean tubing and mouthpiece after each treatment.
- If you have a prescription for new equipment, call to make an appointment so one of our staff members can be sure to be available to assist you when you come into the store.
Ventilator Tips:
- If possible, have another family member join the main caregiver and patient during training on the new ventilator. It’s a good idea for several loved ones to be familiar with how to read and operate the ventilator.
- Have important and emergency phone numbers posted in easily seen areas, perhaps on the refrigerator, or easily accessible in your cell phone.
- Notify Alabama Power that you have a ventilator-dependent patient in your home and that you need to receive power restoration priority.
- Follow your physician’s instructions closely to insure the patient receives the best possible results.
- If you have a non-urgent question to ask the respiratory therapist or the home health nurse, write it down and post it in an easily spotted area to ask during their next home visit.
