Basics of PAP Compliance:

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy compliance means using your PAP device on a regular basis as prescribed by your physician. PAP therapy is the gold standard of treatment for sleep related breathing disorders such as sleep apnea.

The CPAS team is here to not only provide you with the equipment but also to journey with you towards the goal of great compliance and flourishing treatment. We take pride in knowing that you are being successfully treated and your healthcare is of the utmost importance to our team.
Several members of our team have family or friends who use PAP therapy and understand firsthand both the benefits and frustrations that come with being prescribed with a PAP device.

The three C’s of PAP compliance:

Commitment: PAP therapy is not always a quick fix. It involves a long-term commitment to improve your sleep and your health.

Communication: Stay in close communication with us and your primary healthcare provider. We are here to help you with your PAP treatment. Ask us questions. If we cannot answer right away we are committed to finding a solution and getting back to you. It is crucial that you stay in communication with your physician; discuss your progress, sleep habits and concerns frequently.

Consistency: Use PAP therapy all night, every night and for every nap. You will receive the maximum health benefits from PAP therapy when you use it every time that you sleep. If you stick with it, your body will find it easier to adjust in time. Once you have finished one month of using PAP therapy, congratulate yourself. That first month of trial and error is often the most difficult.

Tips for compliance from the start:

-Get a mask that works best for you. Not all masks are the same. If you are not satisfied with your mask let us know so we can help find one that you are comfortable with.

-Ask plenty of questions during your set-up appointment so you can go home feeling confident and ready to begin.

-Read the manual that came with your PAP device and any other resources you were provided.

-Adjust your headgear for your comfort.

-Begin using your PAP device for short periods during the day while you watch TV or read to help you adjust.

-Keep in mind it is normal to occasionally remove your mask during sleep. In time your body will adapt.

-Use the “ramp” setting on your device to help you adjust to the pressure.

-Use the heated humidity feature on your PAP device to prevent nasal dryness and enhance breathing comfort.

-Studies have shown that between 4-5 hours of PAP therapy can be adequate to counter the potential risk of sleep disordered breathing. However, aim for longer if possible.

-Keep your equipment clean. Replace air filters and stick with our replacement parts program to ensure you are receiving the best treatment possible.

-Don’t give up! Always remember PAP therapy is for the long run and the benefits will improve not only your sleep and health but your quality of life.

Click here for a helpful patient handout:

Making CPAP Work For You by Debra Yemenijian