In the previous blog about EasyFlow, we discussed the importance of positioning the CPAP system. A side effect of nasal CPAP is that many newborns develop skin and/or nasal damage. This ranges from redness and swelling to bleeding. In some cases, even necrosis of the septum and/or surrounding areas. Newborns experience discomfort from this. There is also a higher risk of infection. Within the strategy to reduce skin and nasal damage, there are some important aspects that we can strive for around the system of masks and prongs. In this blog, we mention the importance of the right type of material and sizing.
Material type
Applying nasal CPAP is obviously not possible without placing components on the nose and skin of the child. Using materials with the right fineness also contributes to preventing irritation. Here, the combination of fineness and maintaining the functionality is important.
The prongs and masks of the EasyFlow system consist of a carefully composed type of silicone. The masks and prongs are extremely soft, somewhat flexible, but will not easily kink or collapse. In this way, the material is as soft as possible for the skin and the therapy remains in place as well as possible.
A good way to avoid damage is to change the mask and prongs with some frequency. This works easily. It is nice that one of the two prongs can remain in place during nasal suctioning. As a result, the pressure and oxygen administration remains largely intact.
Sizing
Sizing is also very important. Parts of the CPAP system that are too small or too tight increase the risk of skin and nasal damage. Parts that are too large can lead to shifting the position of the system. On the other hand, there is also a risk of CPAP pressure leakage.
It is for this reason that the EasyFlow CPAP system has masks and prongs in 6 sizes and caps in 11 different sizes. There is even an XXS size of prongs for premature babies with an extremely low birth weight of < 500 grams.
The prongs are designed in such a way that the nostril is well sealed and at the same time there is no further surrounding skin contact. There is also practically little contact with the nasal septum. The headbands and fixation straps can be adjusted in size to the child. This way, the system is as adaptable as possible to the dimensions of the child.
Material type and sizing therefore have a major influence on the development of skin and/or nasal damage, as well as on the therapy itself. There are various tools to measure the correct size or to fully tailor it to the patient.
