2019 EMT Refresher Instructor Manual

A.1.C – Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) (~16 minutes)

Objectives: Demonstrate the use of CPAP. (pp 363–364, Skill Drill 9-9)

Setup: - Oxygen system: Oxygen tank, regulator, CPAP system - Good quality manikin such as AMBU PAL or RESUSCI ANNE

Instructions to be read to students: “I am going to demonstrate assembling and administering CPAP.” ‘ Precautions: Do not let the station deteriorate into chatter. Continue rotating them through assemblies until time is up.

Please note the following:

- Demonstrate the assembly of the CPAP system in use. Do not take more than 5 minutes. Review indications and contra-indications for the device.

- Make sure students turn the gas on and check the device is administering before applying it to the manikin.

- Make sure students understand that the device only works if the seal is intact. Leaks will decrease CPAP efficiency, so the device must be on snugly

- It is good practice to explain the device to the patient first, then hold it against their face to get them acclimated to it, then put the straps on once it is not so unfamiliar to the patient.

- Students should reevaluate the patient’s breathing frequently, including:

o Rate of respiration

o Work of breathing

o Breath sounds

o Pulse oximetry

CPAP Takes appropriate BSI

Connect the circuit to the CPAP generator. Connect the face mask to the circuit tubing.

Confirm that the device is on before you apply it to the patient’s face. Place the mask over the patient’s mouth and nose or allow the patient to hold it to his or her mouth and nose. Coach the patient to breathe through the CPAP. Use the strapping mechanism to secure the CPAP to the patient’s head. Make sure there is a tight seal. Adjust the PEEP valve and the FIO2 accordingly to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Reassess the patient.

Critical Criteria: ____ Did not take, or verbalize, BSI procedures

____ Fails to check airflow from device before application ____ Incorrectly applies or assembles mask or straps ____ Incorrectly adjusts PEEP or FIO2