COVID-19 Advisory for CPAP and BPAP Users - Durham VA Health Care System

Veterans,

 

First, thank you for continuing to choose the Durham VA Health Care System (DVAHCS) for your medical and clinical care. We always look forward to serving you and consider it a privilege to assist you in your journey towards good health.

 

For Veterans who are currently enrolled in our Sleep Clinic and are using the Continuous Positive Away Pressure (CPAP) or Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BPAP) Machines, we highly recommend that you do not use the CPAP or BPAP if you are infected with COVID-19 (Coronavirus) or if you think you are infected.

 

If you use the CPAP or BPAP while infected, you may dispense air particles that could infect other members of your household. As an alternative to using PAP therapy, we recommend sleeping on your side to reduce obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

 

Also, if you are infected with the Coronavirus, or believe you may be infected, avoid the use of alcohol and sedating medications, as these may increase OSA. Again, we do not recommend the use of the CPAP or BPAP if you are infected with Coronavirus or if you believe you may be infected.

 

However, if you choose to use the CPAP or BPAP while infected, we highly recommend that you sleep in a separate room, away from your family members. We advise that you wash your face and hands upon awakening and continue to wash your hands and face throughout the day. Follow CDC guidelines for limiting the spread of infection.

 

Please follow the cleaning instructions for the CPAP or BPAP per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

 

Due to the risk of spreading the virus by CPAP or BPAP, if you are admitted to the hospital (for any reason), please leave your PAP machine at home. The use of the PAP machine will be determined by a physician on a case by case basis.

 

Go here for frequently asked questions and answers about COVID-19 and Sleep.

 

Go here for more information about COVID-19 and the CPAP or BPAP.

 

Please consult your specialty care doctor for more questions.

 

On behalf of the DVAHCS Neurodiagnostic Center, thank you for working with us to ensure your safety, the safety of other Veterans, and the safety of DVAHCS Staff, who care for our Veterans. As always, it is an honor to serve you!