APRIA Sleep Therapy User Guide
- June 7, 2024
- APRIA
Table of Contents
Sleep Therapy
Use this QR link to our Sleep Apnea page for more information.
YOUR APRIA SLEEP THERAPY USER GUIDE
For the Philips Respironics DreamStation®
WELCOME.
Thank you for choosing Apria Healthcare as your home medical provider. You are
receiving this package because your doctor has diagnosed you with sleep apnea
and prescribed Positive Airway Pressure therapy. Positive Airway Pressure
therapy–also known as PAP therapy or sleep therapy–helps millions of users
feel more energized and refreshed.
We are excited to accompany you on your journey to a better night’s sleep!
Responsive. On Time. Apria Delivers.
With over 275 branch locations in the U.S., Apria is ready to support patients
every day and in times of need, with well-established emergency preparedness
protocols in place. Apria has the knowledge, experience, and ability to
provide excellent home health and equipment delivery services in all types of
environments.
MOBILIZED EFFORTS: Trained staff members available around the clock to
coordinate urgent and after-hours orders and carry out emergency services
24/7 DELIVERY SERVICES: Deliveries to homes, shelters and other areas pre- and
post-catastrophic events
275+ LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE: Local branches with teams ready to serve patients,
day or night
EXTENSIVE INVENTORY: Home oxygen therapy and respiratory services, sleep
therapy and supply refills, non-invasive ventilation therapy, and negative
pressure wound therapy
Care is just around the corner.
Make sure your home address can be easily seen from the street during both day
and night. If you are expecting a night delivery or visit, turn on the porch
light. Check to see that your address numbers are easy to spot and read from
the street. This will allow all Apria Healthcare and emergency services to
locate your residence easily.
Follow Emergency and Natural Disaster Instructions In the event of an
emergency or natural disaster, follow the radio or television instructions of
your local authorities.
Overview
Your doctor has prescribed PAP therapy because you have been diagnosed with
sleep apnea. Sleep apnea occurs when a person repeatedly stops breathing for
10 or more seconds at a time while sleeping. These events may occur hundreds
of times throughout the night, causing oxygen levels in the blood to drop,
putting stress on the heart. If left untreated, sleep apnea is linked to many
other serious conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and
stroke.
This guide contains easy step-by-step instructions for using your PAP
equipment, and is designed to help you benefit from therapy as soon as your
equipment arrives. Please watch the sleep apnea video on the enclosed DVD and
review the manufacturer’s user guides along with the other educational
materials that were included with your equipment. The sleep apnea video can
also be found on Apria Healthcare’s website at www.apria.com/resource-center
in the “Video Library” section located at the bottom of the screen. Additional
information is also available at www.apria.com/sleep-apnea.
Your Device and Settings
A licensed Apria clinician has programmed your PAP machine with the settings
prescribed by your physician. If your doctor recommends changes to your PAP
settings, please notify Apria Healthcare immediately, so that the clinician
can make any necessary adjustments.
STEP 1
GET STARTED.
Start your therapy tonight so you can feel refreshed in the morning.
1. Open the box and unpack your PAP machine, humidifier chamber, tubing,
mask, power cord and supplies.
2. Plug the power cord into an electric wall outlet. Attach the power cord
and tubing to the PAP machine.
3. Fill the humidifier with distilled water and insert the humidifier into
the PAP machine. (It is recommended that you use distilled water. However, if
you do not have distilled water on hand, in order to start your therapy today,
bottled water can be used as a substitute to distilled water as a temporary
measure.)
4. Place the PAP machine on a table next to your bed. The height of the table
should be lower than your head.
Please watch the sleep apnea video on the DVD and review the manufacturer’s
user guides and other materials that were included
with your equipment. The sleep apnea video can also be found at www.apria.com
/resource-center in the “Video Library” section located at the bottom of the
screen.
2 1
3
4
4 STEP 1: GETTING STARTED
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
STEP 2
GET FAMILIAR WITH YOUR PAP EQUIPMENT.
If your doctor prescribed a specific mask and size, follow the fitting
instructions provided by the manufacturer, then proceed to Step 3. If you
received a mask with multiple cushions, follow the instructions below and on
the next page. There is a mask cushion currently attached to the frame of your
mask. This size fits most patients. Once you begin therapy, if your mask is
leaking or feels uncomfortable, try removing the existing cushion and
replacing it with a different size cushion. If you are between sizes, it is
best to use the larger cushion. Use the Fitting Template (for nasal mask and
full face mask) and/or the manufacturer’s instructions included with your mask
for help.
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4 STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR
WITSHTEYPO1U: GREPTATPINEGQSUTIPAMRTEENDT 5
Nasal Mask
1. Release the lower strap magnets from the frame of the mask. Make sure the
logo on the headgear is facing outward. While holding the mask against your
face, pull the headgear over your head.
2. Position the lower straps so they both sit below the ears. Bring each of
the magnets up to meet their corresponding clips on the frame.
3. Adjust the fastening tabs on the upper straps until the mask feels even
and stable. Do not overtighten. Reattach the fastening tabs.
4. Repeat Step 3 with the lower straps. Reattach the fastening tabs. 5.
Connect the hose to the front of the mask. Ensure that the nasal mask fits
securely over your
nose. It is normal to feel some air escaping through the small air vents on
the elbow of the hose.
Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for additional information on
topics, such as: · How to properly remove your mask · How to remove and change
the mask cushion · How to adjust the length of the mask straps
6 STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR WITH YOUR PAP EQUIPMENT Questions? Call 877.265.2426
Select Option 4
Nasal Pillow Mask
1. Hold the pillows away from your nose with the left (L) and right (R)
indicators correctly facing towards you.
2. Guide the nasal pillows into your nostrils. 3. Pull the headgear over your
head by holding the bottom
strap and stretching it around the back of your head. 4. Adjust the top and
bottom straps. The top strap should fit comfortably on the top of your head.
5. Ensure that the nasal pillows fit securely into your nostrils with both
pillows positioned upright.
If not, move the mask away from your face and then place it back again. 6. To
achieve a comfortable fit, adjust the straps. Spread the straps apart to
loosen, or draw them
closer together to tighten.
Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for additional information on
topics, such as: · How to properly remove your mask · How to remove and change
the mask cushion · How to adjust the length of the mask straps
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4 STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR WITH YOUR
PAP EQUIPMENT 7
Full Face Mask
1. Twist and pull both magnetic clips away from the frame. With the logo on
the headgear facing outward, hold the mask against your face and pull the
headgear over your head.
2. Bring the lower straps below your ears and attach the magnetic clip to the
frame.
3. Undo the fastening tabs on the upper headgear straps. Pull the straps
evenly until the mask is stable and positioned as shown in the illustrations.
Reattach the fastening tabs.
4. Undo the fastening tabs on the lower headgear straps. Pull the straps
evenly until the mask sits firmly on the chin and reattach the fastening tabs.
5. Connect the air tubing from your device to the elbow. Attach the elbow to
the mask by pressing the side buttons and pushing the elbow into the mask.
6. To achieve a comfortable fit, readjust the straps. Evenly, apply only
enough tension so that a seal is achieved.
Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for additional information on
topics, such as: · How to properly remove your mask · How to remove and change
the mask cushion · How to adjust the length of the mask straps
8 STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR WITH YOUR PAP EQUIPMENT Questions? Call 877.265.2426
Select Option 4
Heated Elements
Heated Humidifier The heated humidifier is used to control the desired
temperature and humidification of the air that is delivered to you from your
PAP device. Heated Tubing Heated tubing is designed to maintain the
temperature of the humidified air as it passes through the tube to improve
comfort. Keeping the air temperature in the tube at a constant level ensures
that rainout is avoided even if the temperature in the room drops during the
night.
To attach the heated
1 tubing to the heated
a
humidifier, line up the
connector (a) located
b
at the top of the
heated tube with the
top of the air outlet
port (b) located on
the humidifier.
Press the tubing into
2 place over the air
outlet port until the tabs on the side of the tube click into place with the
slots on the sides of the outlet port.
Using Oxygen with Heated Tubing
1. Attach heated tubing circuit to the device outlet (shown above).
2. Attach pressure valve to the to the other end of the heated wire tubing (the opposite end of the pressure valve connection and the end closest to the mask). See diagram of pressure valve placement on page 10.
3. Attach the O2 tee adaptor to the open end of the pressure valve.
4. Attach the O2 tee adaptor to mask hose.
Attach oxygen tubing here
B
Heated Wire Tubing attached to device
A
C
Pressure Valve
O2 Tee Adapter
Mask Hose
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: If you are using prescribed oxygen with your PAP device, be sure to observe all the fire and safety rules associated with the use of oxygen. Make sure to follow this sequence of steps when turning your oxygen on and off. 1. Always turn your PAP machine ON before turning ON the oxygen flow from your oxygen source. 2. Always turn OFF the oxygen flow from your oxygen source before turning OFF the PAP machine.
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4 STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR WITH YOUR PAP EQUIPMENT 9
Using Oxygen with Non- Heated Tubing
If you are using non-heated tubing, and you are also using prescribed oxygen,
follow these instructions.
When using oxygen and non-heated tubing, the pressure valve must be used at
the outlet of the machine.
1. Attach the pressure valve to the machine outlet.
PRESSURE VALVE A Inlet (larger end) B Vent do not block) C Outlet
2. Attach the oxygen tee adapter to the open end of the pressure valve.
3. Connect the large-bore PAP tubing to the open end of the oxygen tee
adapter.
4. Connect the small-bore oxygen tubing to the small port of the oxygen tee
adapter.
If you did not receive a pressure valve or oxygen tee adapter with your PAP
device, please contact Apria.
For detailed instructions on oxygen use, you should also review the PAP and
oxygen manufacturer’s user guides included in your package.
10 STEP 2: GET FAMILIAR WITH YOUR PAP EQUIPMENT Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
STEP 3
START YOUR PAP MACHINE.
1. First, put on your mask. Next, attach the tubing to the mask.
2. Lie down and take four deep breaths.
The machine should start automatically.
If you do not hear the machine start, press
the Start/Stop button. Relax and begin to
1
take slow breaths through your nose.
3. Check for air leaks. Small leaks are acceptable. If large leaks occur, try the following:
· Grasp the mask frame and lift it
away from your face. The cushions
should also lift off your face. Lightly place the mask back on your face.
2
· If large leaks still exist, adjust the headgear. If the headgear is either too tight or too loose it can cause leaks.
· Additional tips for managing mask leaks are provided on the next page. You should also review the manufacturer’s user guides provided in your package.
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4 STEP 2: GET FAMSITLIEAPR3W: SITTHARYTOYUORUPRAPAEPQMUAIPCMHEINET 11
Helpful Tips
For Nasal and Full Face Masks
· To resolve leaks at the upper part of the mask, adjust the upper headgear
straps. · For leaks at the lower part, adjust the lower headgear straps. ·
When adjusting straps, loosen or tighten both the left and right straps so
that adjustments
are made evenly. · Adjust only enough for a comfortable seal. · The upper
strap adjustment is the key to seal and comfort. · Do not over-tighten the
lower straps. They mainly serve to keep the cushion in position.
For Nasal Pillows Masks
· Position the pillow cushion tips into your nostrils so they sit comfortably
under your nose without any gaps. Pull the mask away from your face, then
place it back to get a comfortable fit.
· Adjust the side straps evenly by pulling downwards; the mask should feel
secure and comfortable against your face. Do not over-tighten.
· If leaks persist, try the next larger set of cushions. · If the pillow is
not staying in place in your nostrils, try the next smaller cushion size.
Hand washing Technique
Thorough hand washing must be done prior to all procedures. Contaminated,
dirty hands are one of the most common sources of infection.
1. Wet your hands thoroughly with warm water. 2. Use soap. 3. Scrub hands for
20 seconds using a rotary motion and friction. Wash:
· Back and palm of each hand · Between all fingers · Fingernails Need a timer?
Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. 4. Rinse your hands
under the running water. 5. Dry on clean towel or with a paper towel. For
additional good health habits, visit our patient education section on
apria.com.
1122 HSTEELPF3U: LSTAIPRST YOUR PAP MACHINE
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
GET COMFORTABLE WITH YOUR THERAPY.
Use your PAP therapy during all hours of sleep, including during naps. Some
people may need up to one or two weeks to adjust to PAP therapy, but the
benefits are well worth it.
Ways to help you adjust:
· Try watching TV or reading while wearing your mask and headgear. Turn on the
PAP device for short periods of time while wearing your mask to get used to
the pressure.
· Use your equipment every night.
· Keep the device turned on for as long as you can tolerate, building up each
night until you have reached at least 4 hours per night.
· Keep practicing until you are using PAP therapy during all hours of sleep,
including during naps.
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
GET COSMTEFOP R3T: ASTBALRETWYITOHURYOPUAPR MTHAECRHAINPYE 13
TRACK YOUR PROGRESS.
You can track your progress by registering for Philips Respironics DreamMapper at www.philips.com/mydreammapper. You can track your previous night’s results, create goals and get feedback. You can also access other helpful information, like tips to help you stay motivated in adhering to your PAP therapy.
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Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
GET SUPPORT.
If you are having difficulties getting used to therapy, try using your
machine’s “comfort features” to help.
How to Turn On The Ramp Feature: If ramp is enabled on your device, after you
turn on the airflow, press the Ramp ( ) button on the top of the device. You
can use the Ramp button as often as you wish during the night.
How to Change the Humidity Level: 1 To adjust the temperature of the tube,
press the tube temperature icon (1) located in the upper right-hand corner of
the screen.
2 To adjust the humidity level, press the humidity icon (2) located in the
lower right-hand corner of screen. You can change the setting from 0 to 5.
Rotate the control knob to select either of these settings. Then, press and
rotate the dial to change the setting.
Note: If you are using a humidifier with non-heated tubing, the adjustable
tube temperature icon is not available.
Do you have a dry nose or throat, or a runny nose? Increase the temperature or
humidity level.
Are there droplets of water or condensation inside your nose, mask, or tubing?
Decrease the temperature or humidity level.
Is the air pressure making it difficult for you to fall asleep? Turn on the
Ramp feature by pressing the button.
Do you feel bloated? You may be swallowing air. Turn on the Ramp feature by
pressing the button.
Do you feel like you are not getting enough air? Do not turn on the Ramp
feature when initiating therapy.
Do you have sore or dry eyes? Adjust your mask or headgear. It may need to be
repositioned. Refer to the instructions provided in the manufacturer’s user
guide for your mask. Also review Steps 2 and 3 in this guide.
Are you experiencing redness on your face where the mask touches the skin?
Your mask may be too tight. Try adjusting your headgear. If redness persists,
contact Apria Healthcare.
Do you have nasal, sinus or ear pain? You may have a sinus or ear infection.
Stop using your machine and contact your doctor.
This information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a
substitute for medical advice or treatment for a specific medical condition.
Should you have any healthcare-related questions, please consult your doctor.
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
STEP 3: START YOUR GPAETP SMUAPCPHOINRET 15
CLEANING, MAINTENANCE AND REPLACEMENT
1. Oil from your face and ingredients in facial products can cause the PAP
mask cushions to wear down and decrease the useful life of the mask. Get in
the habit of wiping down your mask each day, especially the areas that come in
contact with your skin. Clean your mask and headgear weekly according to the
instructions in the mask user guide.
2. Wash the water chamber and air tubing in warm water, using a mild
detergent. Hand wash only. Do not wash in a dishwasher, as it can deteriorate
the plastic.
3. When needed, wipe the exterior of the machine with a dry cloth.
4. Your device has an automatic air filter reminder. Refer to the
manufacturers’s instructions for information on how to replace the filter.
1166 CSLTEAPN3I:NSGT,AMRTAIYNOTUENRAPNACPEMAANCDHIRNEEPLACEMENT
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
REPLACE SUPPLIES REGULARLY
Replace your sleep supplies regularly. This helps to ensure a good mask seal and reduce buildup of bacteria, viruses, and allergens.1 Ordering fresh, clean supplies to replace your old items helps improve the comfort of your mask and maintains the overall effectiveness of your therapy.
Recommended Replacement Schedule
Twice Monthly
· Nasal mask cushions and nasal pillows
· Disposable filters
Once Monthly
· Full-face mask cushions
Every 3 Months
Every 6 Months
· Mask frame
· Headgear and chin straps
· Tubing (standard or heated) · Humidifier water chamber
· Non-disposable filters
Please note that the frequency of resupply and your insurance’s coverage of supplies will be governed by your insurance plan and may differ from the schedule provided above.
Source: 1. Horowitz A, Horowitz S, Chun C. CPAP Masks are Sources of Microbial Contamination. SleepHealth Centers, Div. of Sleep Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston. APSS Poster; 2009.
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STEPRE3P: LSATACRETSYUOPUPLRIEPSAPREMGAUCLHAIRNLEY 1177
CONVENIENT ORDERING OPTIONS
When ordering fresh supplies through Apria, shipping is always free, and we
verify and bill your insurance for you.
Enroll in Apria’s Continuous Sleep Resupply Program*
Determine if you want fresh PAP supplies shipped to your front door every
three or six months, and let Apria do the rest. Visit apria.com/papresupply to
access the online form or call a Sleep Resupply Expert at 877.265.2426 and
select option 2.
Order Online
Apria.com/PAPResupply — Register for the PAP Patient Portal with your Apria
Patient ID, and place an order when you need new supplies. ApriaDirect.com —
Order supplies anytime on the retail (non-insurance) website.
Call Our Automated System
Dial 800.436.5657 to use Apria’s automated phone system available 24/7 to
place your order.
Speak with an Apria Sleep Resupply Expert
Dial 877.265.2426 and select option 2 to order supplies with an Apria Sleep
Resupply Expert. Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST or Saturday: 8 a.m. to 7
p.m. EST
Note: If you decide not to participate in the PAP Resupply Program, you will receive convenient, automated calls from Apria to remind you that it is time to order replacement sleep supplies.
- This Continuous Sleep Resupply Program is not available to all Sleep patients. Patients with certain payors, such as Medicare, Medicaid, Managed Medicaid or TRICARE, are not eligible.
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To ordQeruseusptipolniess?,Ccall 877.265.24266 SSeelleecctt OOppttiioonn 42
We are here for you! With Apria’s Premium Care SleepTM program, you can rest
assured that you will receive the support you need to achieve a better night’s
sleep. It’s not uncommon to experience some discomfort during the first
several days. Remember that regular use will help improve your overall quality
of life so you can look forward to: · Increased energy and alertness ·
Improved blood pressure · Improved glucose tolerance Data from your PAP
machine is securely communicated to Apria Healthcare using cloud-based
software. if you register for Philips Respironics DreamMapper, you will get
feedback on your progress. One of Apria’s Premium Care Sleep Experts will
reach out to you during the first few days of therapy to see how you are
adjusting. If you are struggling with therapy or have questions about your
equipment, please call us right away. We are here to help you.
Remember to use your PAP therapy anytime you sleep, including during naps.
Compliant use is defined as at least 4 hours per night for at least 70% of the
days.
If you have questions about PAP therapy, please contact Apria’s Premium Care
Sleep Experts. Dial the number below and select option 4.
877.265.2426
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
EST
Questions? Call 877.265.2426 Select Option 4
THSETAEPR3I:ASTSALERETPYMOAUSRTPEARPPMROACGHRIANME 19
If you have any questions, or need help setting up your device and getting
started, please call a member of Apria’s Premium Care Sleep Expert team. Dial
the number below and select option 4.
877.265.2426
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
EST Apria is committed to safe, quality patient care. Concerns to be reported
to your local Apria Healthcare branch. If your concern is not resolved, please
contact Patient Satisfaction.
800.260.8808
DreamStation is a registered trademark of Philips Respironics. ©2021 Apria
Healthcare Group LLC SLP-4210 Rev. 05/21_v9
References
- Apria Patient Community
- ApriaDirect.com
- Resource Center | Apria
- Sleep Apnea | Apria
- DreamMapper | Philips
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