What is a BiPAP Machine : A BiPAP machine is a mini ventilator which helps a patient to inhalation and exhalation. BiPAP machine works on two type of air pressures i.e. IPAP and EPAP .
When a BiPAP/Bilevel is used ?
A BiPAP/Bilevel can be used for respiratory illness like COPD , Obesity Hypoventilation , Overlap Syndrome, Obstructive Sleep Apnea etc. Apart from these disease also a Dr can suggest to use BiPAP in critically ill patients .
How does BiPAP/Bilevel work?
BiPAP works by providing two types of air pressure during ventilation. BiPAP maintains a basic pressure continuously and increases up to set pressure while inhalation. That pressure gradient Helps for an effective gas exchange in body and smooth CO2 washout from Lungs.
What are different settings in BiPAP ?
Different models and companies may provide different settings but some important settings to be done in a BiPAP –
IPAP : This is a pressure which is expected to be delivered during inhalation. This should always be higher that EPAP .
EPAP : This is a pressure which is expected to be delivered during exhalation. This should be lower than IPAP always.
Back up Breathes : This setting helps to ensure minimum number of breathes in a minute.
I:E Ratio : This a ratio between pressure delivered during inhalation and exhalation ideally it should be 1:2 in cases like COPD.
Modes : There are approx. 5-6 modes available in BiPAP/Bilevel machine i.e. S (Spontaneous), ST (Spontaneous Timed) , T (Timed) , CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), PAC ( Pressure assist control ), IVAPs/AVAPs ( Tidal Volume Controlled Modes).
Trigger Sensitivity : This is a sensitivity setting which enables devices to sense the inhalation effort quickly or Slowly. Generally five types of levels available – Very Low, Low , Medium , High ,Very High . Levels might depend upon the disease condition.
Cycle Sensitivity : This is a sensitivity setting which enables devices to sense the exhalation effort quickly or Slowly. Generally five types of levels available – Very Low, Low , Medium , High ,Very High . Levels might depend upon the disease condition.
RISE Time : This is the inhalation time when pressure goes from low to high.
Ti Min/Ti Max : This is control of inspiration time . Inspiration time can be controlled with this setting based on the disease and requirement.
What are component of BiPAP /Bilevel devices ?
Generally a BiPAP comes with main Machine, Humidifier , Power Adaptor , Tubing , Carry Bag.
How to check the usage report of BiPAP /Bilevel ?
Basic details can be checked on screen of the device but for detailed report you can connect with your service provider and he/she can help you download a detailed data.
BiPAP should be used for whole life?
It depends upon the patient’s condition and disease. Some times BiPAP is suggested for temporary use or sometimes for longer use. This will be decided by your Doctor.
Explore More BiPAP Machines with Breathnest. Give us a quick call at – 9211572002
Is BiPAP/Bilevel habit forming ?
No this doesn’t cause any habitual tendency but helps to assist you for an effective breathing .
Is Early usage of BiPAP/Bilevel helps to prolong life ?
Yes, as per some studies early usage of BiPAP has proved that life span can be prolonged.
How to use BiPAP/Bilevel machine?
BiPAP should be used with a Vented BiPAP mask. Full Face /Nasal/ Pillow mask can be used along with the BiPAP machine.
Contraindication of BiPAP /Bilevel ?
BiPAP/Bilevel should never be used on any unconscious patient .
What are pros /cons of Purchase & Rent a BiPAP/BiPAP ?
Purchase a BiPAP / Bilevel –
Pros :-
-You get exposed to a completely new machine so this avoids the risk of contamination
-One time investment
-Long term rental sometimes increases the overall cost
Cons :-
-Risk is involved if patient doesn’t get comfortable with therapy then investment might be at stake.
-If the patient is critically ill and life expectancy is not much then purchasing the device may block an amount which can be used to manage other medical expenses
Renting a BiPAP /Bilevel –
Pros :-
-You can try for some time with a minimal cost before you decide to purchase it .
-Different settings /masks fitting can be tried for few days /weeks to settle the patient.
-If life expectancy of patient is not much then renting can help to provide the therapy with controlled expense on device
Cons : –
-Rental devices are used ones to this might carry cross infection but this can be minimise by using a new mask and tubing.
-If you decide to purchase the device then it might add to the cost so suggested is to take on rent only for 1 month initially and then decide.