The full-face, non-vented face mask is the guideline suggested patient interface. It covers the patient’s nose and mouth and is secured in place using straps around the head. In YGC, the full-face mask that we will use is a ResMed Ultra Mirage full-face mask.

To fit the mask:

1. Identify the correct size of mask using the manufacturer’s sizing guide (S, M, L) to fit from the small of the chin to the bridge of the nose.
2. Position the lower point of the mask in the small of the chin, the top of the mask on the bridge of the patient’s nose and the forehead panel on the patient’s forehead for stabilisation.
3. Pull the headgear around the patient’s head and secure in place with the lower pair of clips.
4. Adjust the angle of the hinge between the mask and the forehead panel to improve the fit of the mask to the patient’s face, aiming for an even pressure at the chin, bridge of the nose and the forehead.
5. Adjust the tension of the straps to secure the mask in place. This should not be too tight that it compresses the silicone padding around the mask, but not too loose that air will leak out when the CPAP machine is turned on.
6. Attach the elbow to the antibacterial-viral filter, and the rest of the patient circuit.

To start CPAP treatment:

1. Connect the circuit to the machine in the following order; face mask with entrained oxygen, anti-bacterial viral filter, 22mm tubing with exhalation valve.
2. Fit the mask to the patient; tight enough to prevent any leak, but not too tight to cause pressure damage to the skin.
3. Connect the oxygen tube to the oxygen port on the mask and start oxygen therapy.
4. Press the button on the top of the Airsense 10 CPAP machine, and monitor the mask fit for leaks. If there are any leaks, adjust the straps.