This leaflet provides information, care, and advice on your home non-invasive ventilation (NIV). The community respiratory team work alongside the specialist NIV nurses within EKHUFT to provide you with support and advice about managing your home NIV.
What is non-invasive ventilation?
Non- invasive ventilation (NIV) is a treatment to help with your breathing. It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine which makes your breathing in and out easier and supports
the muscles which make your lungs work. It is generally worn at night during sleep. The mask provided has been selected to fit your face and the machine has been specifically set for your breathing.
You will have been issued with a:
- machine (with power lead)
- filter
- hose
- mask with straps
- carry.
When you switch the machine (called BiPAP S/T) on for the first time you will see:
- 3.0.2 – 1st bleep
- four boxes will appear on the small screen and then SD card inserted will appear on the small screen – 2nd bleep
- you can now press and release the central wheel and the screen will show four boxes
- for BiPAP to work, therapy mode needs to be.
To switch the machine on press and release the central wheel.
To switch off press and hold the central wheel until you hear a bleep.
Why has this treatment been recommended?
NIV can improve sleep quality leading to better energy and concentration levels during the day. It can also make you feel less breathless than before. This may mean you may be able to perform more daily tasks. You may also feel brighter on waking and headache free if this was a problem previously. It can also reduce the likelihood of being re-admitted into hospital.
What does NIV feel like?
In order to use this type of ventilator you will need to wear a face mask which fits firmly, but not too tightly. As you take a breath in you will feel a flow of air from the machine to support your breathing. As you breathe out, you will feel a little resistance which is there to keep the small air passages of your lungs open. This helps to improve the oxygen levels in your blood. It can feel a bit strange to start with, however, most people find that they get used to it fairly easily.
How do I clean my machine and mask?
Daily
It is important to wipe the mask around every morning with a damp cloth or warm water and washing-up liquid.
Every one to two weeks
The mask will likely need a better clean every week or two. In the morning separate the mask from all attachments and wash it gently in warm soapy water. Rinse with clean warm water and allow to air dry before using again. Do not dry near a source of direct heat. If you remove the headgear it is a good idea to mark a line on the straps with a permanent marker so you know where to reattach after cleaning. The straps can be washed in warm soapy water every two weeks and allowed to dry before reusing.
Tubing
Every two weeks the tubing can be washed in warm soapy water, rinsed through with clean warm water and hung over a door to allow water to drain out and dry.
Machine
Unplug the machine from the power and wipe over with a damp cloth and allow to dry before plugging back in and turning the power back on.
FAQs
Q. Can I survive a night without my ventilator?
A. Yes, most patients can spend one or two nights off their machine. You may be more uncomfortable than usual and your symptoms of tiredness and headache may re-appear but this is rarely dangerous.
Q. Does my ventilator need a service?
A. Your ventilator and circuit will be checked as a minimum once a year. We will want to check it each time we review you so remember to bring it to appointments with you. If there are problems with your machine you can contact Phillips Respironics Monday to Friday 9am to midnight or on weekends and bank holidays between 9am and 6pm on 0800 652 0303.
Q. My ventilator does not feel comfortable or gives me a breath at the wrong time. Is this ok?
A. If your machine does not feel right then you should contact your nurse who set you up or Phillips Respironics on 0800 652 0303 for advice.
Q. Do I need to bring my NIV to hospital with me if I am admitted?
A. Yes, definitely and let the nursing staff know that you use NIV at home as well.
Q. Should I use my ventilator in the daytime?
A. If you want a nap or have a chest infection it may be a good idea to use your ventilator during the day as well as at night. You will not become dependent on it and you may gain relief from wearing it.
Q. Is there anyone I can contact out of hours if there is a problem with my ventilator or breathing?
A. The hospital respiratory nurses are available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Phillips Respironics are available on 0800 652 0303. If you are unwell you should contact your GP as usual for help and advice. If the machine is not working outside of normal working hours you should be safe to wait until the next working day and then contact your respiratory nurse.
Are there any risks to having NIV?
As with any treatment, side effects can occur. However, the side effects associated with NIV are rarely severe and easily resolved.
Common problems include the following.
• Mask seal problems
A small leak from the bottom of the mask is common and will not affect the performance of the NIV. However, a large leak or a leak into the eyes can be problematic. You can try tightening the headgear straps slightly at home but bear in mind this can cause further problems with soreness to your face, nose and back of head. It is preferable to contact the nurse who fitted your mask if this is a problem and they can advise you how to manage this. It can sometimes mean a different mask; this can take a few attempts to get right.
• Soreness on the nasal bridge
Soreness on the nasal bridge is an indication that the mask is too tight at the top or is a poor fit. The mask will either need refitting or replacing as the soreness can worsen over time. Contact your NIV nurse if this happens – do NOT wait for your next appointment.
• Throat dryness
A dry mouth is very common when using NIV, particularly with a mask that covers the mouth. Usually a glass of water by the bed to sip from regularly can be enough to resolve this. In some cases humidification devices may help. You can discuss this with your nurse.
• Nasal problems
It is common to suffer from nasal stuffiness or sneezing and a runny nose when you first start treatment. This should settle on its own. If it does not settle after a week or so then contact your GP or pharmacist to discuss whether a nasal spray may be useful.
Contact numbers
- Phillips Respironics - 0800 6520303
- NIV Specialist Nurse EKHUFT - 01233 616071