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Become A Patient

Frequently Asked Questions

IMPORTANT: Included below is a list of answers to commonly asked questions. We strongly encourage all patients to read this in its entirety. For questions not answered below, you may call or e-mail us at any time.

Common Problems

Solution: Full face mask or chinstrap with nasal mask/nasal pillows

Solution: Increase your humidity setting. Nasal pillows masks are more susceptible to this problem.
Solution: Adjust the headgear as instructed by your technician. Also reference your user manual for tips. Mask issues are the most common problem early in the PAP process. You must work through the problems early and you will adjust to the mask over the first 4-6 weeks.
Solution: Tightening the mask is helpful, but positioning the mask centered on the face is just as important. Refer to your mask user guide for additional information.

Replacement Supplies and Machine Warranty Information

  • All provided equipment is billed to your insurance company and is subject to all applicable deductible and co-insurances.
  • Most disposable supplies may be replaced every 3 months. You may contact Quality DME, Inc to enroll in e-mail reminders which will remind you to order supplies every 3 months.
  • Most masks have a 90-day manufacturer warranty for defects. Refer to your mask user manual/instructions for details on manufacturer warranty.
  • Mask Guarantee: Many manufacturers guarantee their masks for 30 days for patient comfort, compliance, and satisfaction. Please note the following regarding mask guarantees:
    • Must be processed within 30 days of receipt of original mask
    • Original mask must be returned to Quality DME, inc
    • Patient is responsible for shipping costs incurred
    • Not available for special order masks
    • Not all manufacturers offer mask guarantees
  • Machines have a two-year warranty. Equipment malfunction after two-year warranty can be repaired by the manufacturer.
  • Insurance companies will replace the machine after 3-5 years depending on your individual policy.
  • For adjustments in levels of pressure we must receive an order from your physician. We cannot make pressure adjustments without a prescription.

Using your CPAP/BIPAP

  • Your machine should be on a flat surface at or below head level
  • Always plug the machine directly into the wall- do not use an extension cord
  • Fill your humidifier chamber with distilled water; this will help keep the chamber clean
  • Attach the tubing to the machine and the other end to your mask
  • Apply the mask to your face as instructed by your set up technician
  • Refer to your user manual for specific instructions on adjusting the mask headgear
  • Tip: For best results, adjust the mask with the machine powered on and pressure flowing
  • Power on the machine as instructed by your set up technician
  • Use the ramp feature to help adjust to you prescribed pressure setting
  • Refer to your user manual for further instructions regarding your machine
  • PAP therapy takes time to get used to. In the first few days you will likely experience some difficulty with sleep onset and may wake after just a couple of hours
  • The key to effective therapy is consistency-make sure you attempt to sleep with you CPAP/BiPAP every single day
  • It takes most patients 3-4 weeks to adjust to therapy, so stay with it!

Maintaining Your Equipment

All items below can be washed with light liquid soap; i.e.- Dove, Ivory, baby soap, et cetera (something gentle; avoid dish washing soaps.) Do not use alcohol based wipes

  • Wash mask weekly with light soap and water. Disassemble your mask to clean and dry it thoroughly. Wipe down with a damp washcloth on a daily basis.
  • Wash tubing weekly with light soap and water. Rinse tubing thoroughly and hang to dry.
  • Wash humidifier chamber weekly with soap and water. Empty leftover water daily. Check your user manual to see if your chamber can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
  • Rinse permanent filter weekly with water. Permanent filters are gray or black. Disposable filters, usually white, are replaced every 4-12 weeks. Refer to your user manual for details.

TIP: For more effective cleaning, create a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part white vinegar. Let the mask, cushion, tubing, and chamber soak in the mixture for 30 minutes; rinse and dry well.

What Else?

Here are some helpful tips about CPAP therapy:

  •  For more effective cleaning, create a solution of three parts water to one part white vinegar. Let the mask, cushion, tubing, and chamber soak in the mixture for 30 minutes; rinse and dry well.
  • It may take 2-3 weeks to adjust to therapy. Use the machine every night to increase effectiveness.
  • CPAP/BIPAP masks should be loose fitting and comfortable. Adjust the mask while in the sleeping position with pressure flowing to maximize fit and comfort.
  • The pressure setting on your device is prescribed by your physician and can only be adjusted with a new order. Consult with him/her regarding problems with the pressure setting.
  • If you are traveling, pack your machine and bring it with you. You may carry it on an airplane with you at no additional charge because it is a medical device. Make sure to empty the water chamber when you pack up the device.
  • Machines work on 110v and 220v. If you travel overseas, you will only need a plug adapter.

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