Once patients begin positive airway pressure therapy, they may feel a bit overwhelmed. Many people benefit from education and support programs. To help you assist your patients, we've summarized a few studies and their findings. We've also supplied a list of educational and support activities used by clinics and clinicians.
CPAP Clinic Attendance
Likar et al reported that attendance in a group clinic designed to encourage patient compliance with CPAP therapy provides a simple and effective means of improving treatment of OSA.1 Sarwar et al also reported that regular attendance in a CPAP support groups improves patient compliance with therapy.2
Active Educational Programs
Hoy et al reported that CPAP use and outcomes can be improved by an active educational program.3
Follow-Up Visits
Even lower levels of support seem to produce positive results. Huban et al reported that a one-month follow-up appointment could improve compliance.4 Success of this lesser level of support may be a good indicator of the impact that support from the healthcare provider can have. Chervin et al concluded that simple, inexpensive efforts might improve compliance with CPAP, especially when applied at the start of CPAP therapy.5 Making extra efforts early may be one of the most important aspects of improving compliance. Most researchers agree that once a patient has given up on positive airway pressure, odds are against their resumption of therapy.
Educational and Support Activities
Most patients will go to their training alone; however, many clinics and educators involve spouses and bed partners as well. Here are some topics to cover:
- Training on use of equipment--mask, flow generator, humidifier
- Training on how to clean equipment--mask, tubing, humidifier
- Training on possible side effects and how to treat them--autotitration and humidification to treat nasal irritation and sensitivity to higher pressures, mask selection and fitting for facial discomfort
- Education on the associated health risks of untreated SDB--auto accidents, depression, hypertension, stroke (and TIA), heart disease
- Introduction to support groups and online chat rooms and message boards
- Follow-up visits with primary physicians, especially in the first months of treatment
- Follow-up visits with homecare providers, especially in the first months of treatment
Websites for Patients and their Families
American Sleep Apnea Association
American Academy of Sleep Medicine
National Sleep Foundation