Masks, cannulae and tubing

You must use only masks, tubing and cannulae supplied by Baywater Healthcare.

Cannulae can easily become blocked and masks can become dirty over time so it is very important to keep both as clean as possible.

Replace cannula monthly or on the advice of a Healthcare Professional. With regular cleaning, masks will last approximately 3-6 months. You can request new cannulae and masks from our Healthcare Technician, or by calling us.

The tubing we supply has been specially designed to prevent crushing (which can restrict the flow of oxygen) but it is always important to check that the tubing is not kinked or trapped anywhere.

If you need to secure a cannula to the patient’s face, seek advice from your Healthcare Professional.

How to fit a cannula

1. Place the nasal prongs into the patient’s nostrils taking care not to damage the soft tissue
2. Tuck the tubes extending from the nasal oxygen port behind the ears of the patient
3. Secure the cannula by sliding the plastic toggle at the back of the patients head (older children and teenagers should secure the toggle underneath their chin)

Cannulae are available in different shapes and sizes. Please take note of the cannula type we supply you with. This will ensure you receive the correct cannula should you call the Healthcare Helpline to order more.

Relieving irritation and dryness

Masks and cannulae can irritate the nose and skin, especially for people on high flow rates. To relieve skin irritation and prevent dryness use water-based moisturiser, or non-petroleum gels such as KY Jelly for the nose. DO NOT use petroleum based gels or creams such as Vaseline. If in doubt, consult our Healthcare Helpline.

Cleaning

Cannulae can easily become blocked and masks can become dirty over time, so it is important to keep both masks and cannulae as clean as possible.

Cannulae tips should be cleaned daily with a damp cloth. NEVER immerse your cannula in water. Replace your cannula monthly or on the advice of your Healthcare Professional.

Oxygen masks should be cleaned daily in hot soapy water. Rinsed and thoroughly air dried before use. Non-rebreathe masks must not be immersed in water; to clean them, wipe them daily using a damp cloth.

With regular cleaning, masks will last approximately 3-6 months. You can request new cannulae and masks from your Healthcare Technician or calling us.

Your oxygen supply tube

Oxygen tubing carries oxygen from the home oxygen therapy cylinder or concentrator machine to the mask or cannula. It is an important piece of home oxygen therapy equipment.

The appropriate length of tubing will be supplied by our Healthcare Technician, taking into account the needs of the home oxygen therapy user and the safest option.

All tubing is anti-crush, meaning that it keeps its shape and is not easily pushed down flat. Check the tubing regularly for any signs of damage such as kinking, flattening or splitting. If you notice any damage with your home oxygen therapy tubing, replace it immediately. Ensure home oxygen therapy tubing does not become trapped, for instance, in furniture or under doors as this will restrict, or even stop the flow of oxygen. Take care to minimise problems which can be caused by pets in your home eg puncturing the tubing. Ensure other people in your home are aware of your home oxygen therapy tubing and equipment so they don’t trip or fall over it. When walking, you may find it easier to drape the tubing over your shoulder.

All tubing features a trumpet connection at the end to fit either the mask or the nasal cannula into.

Caution
Under no circumstances should the oxygen supply tube be totally immersed in water.