It is Important to Keep CPAP Tubing Clean and In Proper Working Order
In Order To Receive the Full Benefits of the CPAP Machine

Medical mechanical ventilation is used in a variety of healthcare environments.  The CPAP is one such mechanical ventilation system.  CPAP tubing is a vital part of the CPAP machine's effectiveness.  CPAP machine tubing connects the machine to the face mask or nasal mask and facilitates the transfer of the air pressure from the CPAP machine to the patient.  CPAP machines can come with a humidifier to moisten the air that is being pumped into the patient's airway with water.  The tubing is vital to the effectiveness of the machine.  If the tubing is dirty or damaged, the patient will not receive the full benefits of the CPAP.  Maintenance of the tubing is important for optimal functioning of the machine.  While you should not submerge the CPAP unit in water, you may use water to keep the tubing clean.  Just make sure that all the water is drained from the tubing before reconnecting.  Your healthcare professional can show you how to do this properly.  With the air pressure being directed to the nasal passages, air that is too humid can cause respiratory problems.

When water collects in the tubing while the CPAP is in use, it is called "rainout".  Rainout occurs when the air in the room is cooler than the air coming from the CPAP and condensation results.  The air pressure from the machine does not usually force out the rainout, but it is not desirable to have water in the CPAP tubing, particularly with use of a nasal mask.  Your healthcare professional can give you advice on how to prevent rainout such as insulating the tubing or hanging it over the headboard to prevent rainout. 

The CPAP is designed to use air pressure to open the airway via a face mask or nasal mask.  For the insomnia patient, the CPAP is a vital part of their healthcare.  Just as the patient should maintain his or her healthcare, so should he or she maintain the equipment associated with their sleeping disorder.  This maintenance includes not only the unit itself, but the masks and tubing as well.

See Also: Dangers of Using a CPAP Machine

About The Author:
Kerri Iamele is a successful author and regular contributor to sleep-disorders-help.com.