- Joined
- Nov 5, 2009
- Messages
- 14,210
- Reason
- Lost a loved one
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- 00/0000
- Country
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- State
- WA
- City
- Seattle
Sissy,
The IPAP and EPAP can be adjusted separately. I have attached the basic instructions for getting into the setup menu and a general overview of settings (the numbers they mention on the one-pager are general suggestions for other patient types, but the one I would follow is using S/T mode and setting EPAP at 4). Note that you do not have to enable AVAPS -- he may be more comfortable without volume control at this stage -- or you can lower or increase the target volume. He may need a lower target rate as each breath is still tiring. Let me know if you need more help on settings -- we can talk live if that would help.
The idea that an oximeter reading will not vary just because he is on BiPAP is ridiculous, as anyone here who has one will testify. You couldn't get out of med school thinking that, so it sounds like "don't bother us," honestly. I only mentioned oximetry (you can buy one at a drug store, BTW) because if SpO2 is consistently in the 70s or 80s that gives you a better idea that things are probably not going to stand still. Also, keeping it on his finger while you adjust the settings can help you see what settings may help the most. I agree that your clinic sounds worse than clueless/indifferent and at some point later on I would suggest that you write a strong letter to the administrator and physician-in-chief wherever it is, as well as a post here to warn others off.
I know of all us here remain ready to help however we can.
The IPAP and EPAP can be adjusted separately. I have attached the basic instructions for getting into the setup menu and a general overview of settings (the numbers they mention on the one-pager are general suggestions for other patient types, but the one I would follow is using S/T mode and setting EPAP at 4). Note that you do not have to enable AVAPS -- he may be more comfortable without volume control at this stage -- or you can lower or increase the target volume. He may need a lower target rate as each breath is still tiring. Let me know if you need more help on settings -- we can talk live if that would help.
The idea that an oximeter reading will not vary just because he is on BiPAP is ridiculous, as anyone here who has one will testify. You couldn't get out of med school thinking that, so it sounds like "don't bother us," honestly. I only mentioned oximetry (you can buy one at a drug store, BTW) because if SpO2 is consistently in the 70s or 80s that gives you a better idea that things are probably not going to stand still. Also, keeping it on his finger while you adjust the settings can help you see what settings may help the most. I agree that your clinic sounds worse than clueless/indifferent and at some point later on I would suggest that you write a strong letter to the administrator and physician-in-chief wherever it is, as well as a post here to warn others off.
I know of all us here remain ready to help however we can.