How to Set BiPAP

BiPap stands for Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure. A BiPAP machine provides positive air pressure to respiratory patients. People suffering from sleep apnea often use BiPAP, which differs from a CPAP machine that provides Continuous Positive Air Pressure. The BiPAP machine reduces air flow during exhalation to prevent the patient from re-breathing exhaled air. A doctor or respiratory therapist sets the air pressure and the user cannot change it. Correct air pressure is vital. Pressure too low will do no good and pressure too high can cause lung damage.

Instructions

• 1

  Activate the BiPAP machine. A self-test screen will display all of the digital labels at once. The doctor or respiratory therapist sets the pressure and receives data through a software package that interfaces the machine with a computer. After the machine performs the self test, the screen will display the software version installed on the machine. The last screen will show the number of hours the machine has been in use. Each of these screens will appear for several seconds, and the keypad will be inactive during this time.

• 2

  Turn on the machine. A monitoring screen will appear. This screen shows the pressure prescribed as well as the Flex option, if the doctor prescribes. During Flex operation, the machine responds to the patients breathing rather than changing pressure on a set schedule.

• 3

  Press and hold the "HEAT" button for four seconds to change the temperature of the humidifier. A number will appear on the screen. Press the "HEAT" button to raise the temperature. Press the "RAMP" button to lower the number. Press "SILENCE" to exit the screen.

• 4

  Press the "RIGHT" or "LEFT" buttons to move clockwise or counterclockwise around the display screen. When each of the icons for "Ramp," "Rise Time," "Flex" or "Light" appear, the operator can alter that option. If the "Flex" option on does not appear, it is because the doctor has not prescribed that option. Contact your physician or therapist. If the doctor has prescribed the "Flex" optio, the "Rise Time" function will not light. This mode sets the time for scheduled breathing and is unnecessary for Flex breathers.

• 5

  Press the "HEAT" or "RAMP" button to change the settings in each mode. Each mode has a setting between one and three.

• 6

  Press "SILENCE" to exit from setting any mode.