General Warnings - ResMed AirFit F20 User Manual

GENERAL WARNINGS

• The mask must be used under qualified supervision for users who
are unable to remove the mask by themselves. The mask may not
be suitable for those predisposed to aspiration.
• The mask must be fitted with the supplied elbow (containing the
valve and vent assembly) to ensure safe and functional usage
unless otherwise specified. Do not use the mask if the valve or
vent assembly is damaged or missing.
• The mask contains safety features in the elbow, which are the
valve and vent, to enable normal breathing and exhaust exhaled
breath. Occlusion of the valve and vent needs to be prevented to
avoid having an adverse effect on the safety and quality of the
therapy. Regularly inspect the valve and vent to ensure they are
kept clean, undamaged and clear of blockages. The mask should
not be worn if the valve is damaged as it will not be able to
perform its safety function. The elbow should be replaced if the
valve is damaged, distorted or torn. The vent holes and valve
should be kept clear.
• The mask should only be used with CPAP or bilevel devices
recommended by a physician or respiratory therapist.
• Avoid connecting flexible PVC products (eg, PVC tubing) directly
to any part of the mask. Flexible PVC contains elements that can
be damaging to the materials of the mask, and may cause the
components to crack or break.
• The mask should not be used unless the device is turned on. Once
the mask is fitted, ensure the device is blowing air.
Explanation: CPAP and bilevel devices are intended to be used
with special masks (or connectors) which have venting to allow
continuous flow of air out of the mask. When the device is turned
on and functioning properly, new air from the device flushes the
exhaled air out through the mask holes. When the device is
turned off, the mask valve opens to atmosphere allowing fresh air
to be breathed. However, a higher level of exhaled air may be
rebreathed when the device is off. This applies to most full face
masks for use with CPAP and bilevel devices.
• Follow all precautions when using supplemental oxygen.
• Oxygen flow must be turned off when the CPAP or bilevel device
is not operating, so that unused oxygen does not accumulate
within the device enclosure and create a risk of fire.
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