CPAP Supply Schedule
In my last trip to my (hospital) Sleep Clinic Group, they gave me their new "CPAP Supply Schedule". A CPAP Supply Schedule is a "Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Replacement Schedule for CPAP Supplies" and it contains the following:
Nasal cushion (insert) .................One every 3 months.
Nasal mask and headgear .................One every 6 months.
Tubing .................One every 3 months.
Chinstrap .................One every 6 months.
Disposable filters .................Two every month.
Reusable filters .................One every 6 months.
Humidifier chamber .................One every 6 months.
Considering this equipment is being used by a reasonably clean and responsible person, is there any medical basis for this kind of replacement schedule?
RE: CPAP Supply Schedule
Wear and tear. And germs.
RE: CPAP Supply Schedule
I just keep spares of everything on hand and replace them as necessary. It lasts longer if you keep it clean, especially the mask cushion. I get about 6-8 months out of my mask cushion. (I can make it last longer, but it becomes more difficult to clean.) I get about 6-8 months out of headgear and chinstraps before they become too stretched out to use. I'm still using the same mask frame I started with 2 years ago. You can keep using tubing until you step on it or the cat bites a hole in it. Filters really depend on how dusty your bedroom is. I get about 6 months, but some people get a month or less, for a disposable filter. The humidifier chamber lasts until it springs a leak or stuff starts growing in it. I get about 6-8 months, but mine has a design defect that causes it to leak. Other humidifier chambers last longer.
RE: CPAP Supply Schedule
Hehe - Most/many of the old-timers will tell you to get the new equipment (if free) as often as possible (spare parts, new mask trials), but a lot of us use much older equipment. I can usually get 2-3yrs from a mask. I am on my second water chamber in roughly 5yrs. I 'wash' my filter monthly, and change when needed. I just switched to my second hose in +10yrs - just cuz it was old and I have spares.
Most medical people talk about daily cleaning of your mask. Sorry, I suck! Weekly if I am lucky...
*I* am not a DOCTOR or any type of Health Care Professional. My thoughts/suggestions/ideas are strictly only my opinions.
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