Moderated Chat Transcript: Aclaim 2 Nasal Mask for CPAP and Bi-level Therapy

With Jillian Gery of Fisher & Paykel Healthcare

A moderated chat event was held on Wednesday, July 17, 2002, featuring Jillian Gery with Fisher & Paykel Healthcare. The questions and answers from the chat are listed below. We all wish to thank Ms. Gery for generously contributing her time to inform sleep disorder patients about the Aclaim 2 Nasal Mask. Each question is linked to the answer for your easy reference.

Questions:

1. What are the biggest differences between the Aclaim and the Aclaim 2?
2. When will the Aclaim 2 be available?
3. Is the Aclaim 2 more expensive than the original Aclaim?
4. I have problems with sores on the bridge of my nose; will the Aclaim 2 be able to help me with this issue?
5. How does the lockable T-piece on the Aclaim 2 work?
6. How many adjustments can I make with the T-piece?
7. How do I lock the T-piece?
8. How do I unlock the T-piece?
9. My old Aclaim tended to leak into my eyes- will the new T-piece help this?
10. I like the floating T-piece on the Aclaim- why did you decide to make it locking?
11. When fitting the Aclaim 2, should you start with the T-piece locked or unlocked?
12. How do you know if you should have the T-piece locked or unlocked?
13. What is the benefit of the floating T-piece?
14. What is the purpose of the diffuser piece?
15. Can I use the Aclaim 2 without the diffuser?
16. When do I need to change the diffuser?
17. Are there any differences between the diffuser on the Aclaim 2 and the Aclaim?
18. How do I clean the diffuser?
19. Can I get extra diffusers if I want them?
20. My diffuser gets small black dots on it. Why does this happen and how can I clean this?
21. Why is the Aclaim 2 more comfortable than other masks on the market?
22. What is the benefit of having the foam cushion on the Aclaim 2?
23. My white foam cushion gets yellow and dirty? How can I prevent this?
24. How do I clean the foam cushion on the Aclaim 2?
25. Will the foam cushion mold to my face over time?
26. Does the Aclaim 2 come in different sizes?
27. How do I know if I should use the Medium/Small or the Medium/Large silicone seal?
28. How does the Aclaim 2 prevent leaks?
29. Why should I use the Aclaim 2?
30. What type of padding does the Aclaim 2 have for the forehead?
31. Have the forehead pads been changed on the Aclaim 2?
32. How do I prevent marks from developing on my forehead from the silicone pads?
33. What is the proper way to fit the Aclaim 2?
34. If I feel mask leaks with the Aclaim 2, what should I do?
35. Have any changes been made to the headgear of the Aclaim 2?
36. What material is the headgear made of on the Aclaim 2?
37. How do I clean the headgear on the Aclaim 2?
38. My Aclaim headgear is too short- can I use a different headgear with the Aclaim 2?
39. The Aclaim leaks into my mouth, what can I do to eliminate this?
40. Is the Aclaim still available?
41. Are any other future changes going to be made to the Aclaim 2?
42. The Aclaim is too large for my face, will the Aclaim 2 fit the same?
43. Which types of patients are best suited for the Aclaim 2?
44. What is the purpose of the glider on the Aclaim 2?
45. My glider keeps breaking, what can I do?
46. Do I need to remove the glider when cleaning my Aclaim 2?
47. Does the Aclaim 2 have a stronger glider?
48. What changes have been made to the glider on the Aclaim 2?
49. Is the Aclaim 2 latex-free?
50. I have an allergic reaction/rash when I wear the Aclaim , what could this be from?
51. I am left-handed and have difficulty getting my headgear on and off of the glider. What should I do?
52. Can I get spare gliders for my Aclaim 2 if I choose to?
53. The glider on my Aclaim doesn't slide very easy- has this been changed on the new version of the mask?
54. Does the glider break easily?
55. Should I tighten the top or bottom straps first to eliminate leaks?
56. Does the Aclaim 2 need to have the lower straps placed in the frown position?
57. I don't like having the tubing over my head, do I have another choice?
58. Does the Aclaim 2 have oxygen ports?
59. Do I have to secure the tubing into the headgear strap on the top of my head?
60. How do I clean the Aclaim 2?
61. How much does the Aclaim 2 cost?
62. My homecare company does not have the Aclaim 2 yet- how can I get one?
63. How long has the Aclaim 2 been on the market?
64. My insurance company doesn't pay for the Aclaim 2, what can I do?
65. Can I wear glasses with the Aclaim 2?
66. I get nasal congestion with my Aclaim- what can I do to reduce this?
67. Does the Aclaim 2 have a mask replacement program for sleep labs?
68. Is the Aclaim 2 difficult to assemble?
69. Why does the Aclaim 2 have so many parts?
70. I really like the Aclaim 2. What other products do Fisher & Paykel Healthcare make?
71. What are the comfort features of the Aclaim 2?
72. Will the mask move when I change position?

Talk About Sleep proudly welcomes Fisher & Paykel Healthcare as our special guest tonight to answer your questions on the Aclaim 2 Nasal Mask for CPAP and Bi-Level therapy.

With over 25 years of experience in the market, Fisher & Paykel introduced the first heated humidifier for use with CPAP and Bi-Level therapy in 1992. In 1998, F & P introduced the first integrated humidified CPAP system in North America. In 2001, the company broadened its expertise to include the interface market by introducing the Aclaim 2 nasal mask.

The Aclaim nasal mask was rapidly accepted in the sleep arena due to some of its key features unique only to Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, including: comfort provided by foam cushion and silicone seal combination, glider mechanism allowing freedom of movement for patients while minimizing mask leaks, diffuser to reduce noise and draft for bed partner, and floating T-piece for maximum patient comfort with minimal adjustments.

In June 2002, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare went a step further to launch the Aclaim 2 Nasal Mask for CPAP and Bi-Level therapy. Research and development in conjunction with patient feedback have allowed the company to make the original Aclaim even better. The Aclaim 2 has numerous enhancements, which will solidify its reputation as one of the leading masks on the market for patient comfort and compliance.

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare continue to enhance its interface portfolio¡V as evidenced by the launch of the Oracle oral interface. This product as well as the HC150 stand alone humidifier and the new HC220 series, a family of integrated CPAP devices, utilizing the new Ambient Tracking technology, may be viewed in the equipment fair located in the sleep disorder information page or on their website at www.fphcare.com.

With us tonight is Fisher & Paykel's Jillian Gery, Interface Specialist for the U.S. market. Jillian has a BS degree in Biology from Ohio University and has previous experience in the cardiology arena of the medical and pharmaceutical markets. She joined the Fisher & Paykel Healthcare team in 2002 in an effort to provide education for both the nasal and oral interfaces.

Please limit your questions to topics related to Aclaim Masks for CPAP Therapy.

Tonight we will give away 5 Aclaim 2 nasal masks. All who are in attendance tonight will automatically be included in the drawing, but you must be present to win when your name is called! Thank you Fisher & Paykel Healthcare for generously donating these prizes!

After the winning name is called, you will receive a private message from TASbill asking for your email address so we can contact you for shipping instructions!

This is a hushed room and does not allow for chat amongst yourselves. Think of it as a lecture hall. Anything typed into the chat room will be presented as a question to Jillian Gery. You can communicate with others in the room by sending private messages.

To submit a question, simply type in your question in the chat screen and press the enter key on your keyboard! Please submit your questions now or any time during the chat. If duplicate or similar questions are submitted, only one will be answered.

Lets begin the chat tonight with those questions that were submitted in advance for Fisher & Paykel Healthcare. Sit back and enjoy the question and answer session. We are happy to have you with us tonight as we all continue the journey to keep ourselves educated and informed on issues relating to our sleep disorders.

Answers:

1. What are the biggest differences between the Aclaim and the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 has an optional locking T-piece, a stronger clear glider, new silicone seal, grey foam cushion, deeper forehead pads, an improved swivel, larger headgear, and engraving and frosting on the mask base.

2. When will the Aclaim 2 be available?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: It is available and shipping daily. Your local homecare company can place an order if they do not currently have it in stock.

3. Is the Aclaim 2 more expensive than the original Aclaim?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No. We did not pass the cost of the added features on to the homecare dealers or patients.

4. I have problems with sores on the bridge of my nose; will the Aclaim 2 be able to help me with this issue?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. The lockable option helps to pull the mask outward from the bridge of the nose. It holds it in place to reduce mask movement, mask leaks, and pressure on the bridge of the nose.

5. How does the lockable T-piece on the Aclaim 2 work?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The T-piece has two positions- either locked or floating. A plastic slide, which moves up and down the T-piece, allows the patient to transition between the two positions. Currently, we have only one position in which it can be locked- therefore, it is great to be able to have the floating option as well.

6. How many adjustments can I make with the T-piece?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 T-piece locks in one position or can be unlocked to a floating position that self-adjusts to the forehead.

7. How do I lock the T-piece?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Move the plastic slide down towards the mask base until it clicks into place.

8. How do I unlock the T-piece?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Lift the plastic cover over the ridge and slide it back up toward the forehead pads.

9. My old Aclaim tended to leak into my eyes- will the new T-piece help this?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. The new T-piece will help prevent leaks because it pushes outward from the bridge of the nose when in the locked position. In addition, it helps to reduce mask movement which also contributes to minimal leaks. Don't forget the Aclaim 2 has two silicone seal sizes in each box to offer you the best fit with the reduced mask leaks.

10. I like the floating T-piece on the Aclaim- why did you decide to make it locking?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: We wanted to provide an option for patients. The change was made due to customer feedback and competition. Since many competitive masks have the ability to lock the T-piece, we decided to offer patients the same option while still providing the floating T-piece that we have had success with to this point.

11. When fitting the Aclaim 2, should you start with the T-piece locked or unlocked?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Start with the T-piece in the locked position.

12. How do you know if you should have the T-piece locked or unlocked?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Start with the T-piece locked. If leaks are occurring and changing the seal size does not help, then unlock it. If pressure is felt on the bridge of the nose and the T-piece is unlocked, lock it to reduce that pressure. Patient comfort will dictate which setting to use.

13. What is the benefit of the floating T-piece?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The floating T-piece does not require any adjustments by the patient. It rests gently against the forehead to improve comfort. It will find its own position and can cater to different forehead sizes and shapes.

14. What is the purpose of the diffuser piece?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The diffuser reduces draft and noise for the bedpartner. The Aclaim 2 is effective with or without this piece- it depends on patient preference. This feature is unique to Fisher & Paykel Healthcare.

15. Can I use the Aclaim 2 without the diffuser?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Absolutely.

16. When do I need to change the diffuser?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: It is time to change the diffuser if it begins to whistle or make noise- this is an indication that the material is breaking down and to change to a new filter. Each Aclaim 2 is packaged with 1 diffuser on the mask and 4 spare diffusers.

17. Are there any differences between the diffuser on the Aclaim 2 and the Aclaim?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No. The mechanics are exactly the same. The only difference is that the Aclaim 2 is packaged with more spare diffusers than the Aclaim had.

18. How do I clean the diffuser?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: When dirty, the diffuser can be washed in warm soapy water and then rinsed in fresh water before drying. Every 7 days, rinse the diffuser under cold running water.

19. Can I get extra diffusers if I want them?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes- they are available to homecare companies as a separate part number.

20. My diffuser gets small black dots on it. Why does this happen and how can I clean this?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The black dots are a result of the air that you exhale out flowing through the holes in the diffuser. These dots are not an indication that the diffuser is dirty or that it needs to be changed. Clean as usual to maintain its performance. The indication to change the diffuser is if you hear a whistling sound. Currently, there are 4 spare filters shipping with each Aclaim 2 so that if you feel the need to change it more frequently, you can.

21. Why is the Aclaim 2 more comfortable than other masks on the market?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 is extremely comfortable because it has a unique foam cushion and silicone seal combination. They are designed to fit different nose shapes and sizes giving greater comfort. We also provide two sizes of the silicone seal in each box in an effort to give freedom to each patient to choose which is right for them. In addition, the glider system of the Aclaim 2 allows the patient freedom of movement in bed with dislodging the mask. This improves patient comfort while sleeping and decreases potential uncomfortable leaks.

22. What is the benefit of having the foam cushion on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: It is a polyurethane foam developed with patient comfort, hygiene, and performance specifically in mind. The foam allows the mask to fit different nose shapes and sizes. It is impregnated with a substance called HealthGuard which kills a broad spectrum of bacteria, fungi, yeast, and molds. The foam is also covered in a water and dirt resistant coating.

23. My white foam cushion gets yellow and dirty? How can I prevent this?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The color of the foam cushion has been changed to grey on the Aclaim 2. This reduces the discoloration over time caused by UV light improving the appearance of the mask.

24. How do I clean the foam cushion on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Wipe the foam cushion clean with a damp cloth or sponge and leave to dry.

25. Will the foam cushion mold to my face over time?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No, the cushion does not have a memory. This will prevent leaks from developing with prolonged use.

26. Does the Aclaim 2 come in different sizes?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. Two silicone seal sizes are provided in each box- Med/Sml and Med/Lge. These can be interchanged on the mask frame to provide each patient with two sizes without having to go to their homecare company for a new mask if a sizing issue arises.

27. How do I know if I should use the Medium/Small or the Medium/Large silicone seal?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: If you have pressure on your nose, you may need the medium/large silicone seal. If you experience leaks around the nose, you may need the medium/small silicone seal.

28. How does the Aclaim 2 prevent leaks?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 prevents leaks in many ways. First, the locking T-piece reduces mask movement which minimizes leaks. The glider prevents leaks by allowing the mask to remain in position while patients roll and move in bed. The combination of the foam cushion and silicone seal provides a high performance seal. Also, having two silicone sizes in each Aclaim 2 box allows the patient or homecare dealer to easily make sizing changes if leaks occur.

29. Why should I use the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 provides many features which improve patient comfort and compliance: fully-assembled in box, lightweight Breathoprene headgear, lockable T-piece or floating T-piece option, unique glider mechanism, bias flow diffuser, foam cushion and silicone seal comfort system, and two sizes of silicone seals in each box.

30. What type of padding does the Aclaim 2 have for the forehead?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: It has two silicone pads which are soft and comfortable. They have been altered on the Aclaim 2 to increase comfort, as they are deeper and compress more easily.

31. Have the forehead pads been changed on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The silicone pads are deeper and compress more easily as compared to those on the Aclaim.

32. How do I prevent marks from developing on my forehead from the silicone pads?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: It is important that the top straps not be over-tightened. The top straps should be snug, but not tight. It the top straps are being tightened due to a leak, try locking or unlocking the T-piece or changing silicone sizes before tightening top straps.

33. What is the proper way to fit the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Start with the T-piece in the locked position. Next, place headgear over head making sure that the lower straps sit below ears. Then attach strapping to glider. Next, pull lower straps as low as possible down the back of the neck and remove slack from all straps. Attach your CPAP machine. Adjust lower straps to eliminate mask leaks. If leaks persist, change to the medium/small seal.

If leaks continue to persist around the eyes, unlock the T-piece and make sure that the flexitube is secured by the headgear strapping.

34. If I feel mask leaks with the Aclaim 2, what should I do?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Make adjustments to the lower straps only to eliminate mask leaks. If leaks persist, change to the medium/small silicone seal. If leaks still persist around the eyes, unlock the T-piece and make sure that the flexitube is secured by the headgear strapping.

35. Have any changes been made to the headgear of the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The straps have been lengthened by 30 mm to accommodate a larger range of head sizes. The part number and Fisher & Paykel logo have been added to the back of the headgear to assist in product recognition and simplicity in reordering.

36. What material is the headgear made of on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: It is made of Breath-O-Prene. This material is cool, lightweight, comfortable and less stretchy over time.

37. How do I clean the headgear on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: When needed, wash the headgear in warm soapy water and rinse in fresh water before drying. Every 7 days, handwash the headgear using mild household detergent. Before washing, join the tabs to prevent damage during washing.

38. My Aclaim headgear is too short- can I use a different headgear with the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 headgear straps have been lengthened to accommodate a larger range of head sizes. This should eliminate your headgear issues with the Aclaim.

39. The Aclaim leaks into my mouth, what can I do to eliminate this?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Adjust the bottom straps to eliminate leaks. Leave the top straps snug but not tight. If leaks persist, change to the medium/small silicone seal. On the Aclaim 2, the T-piece can also be unlocked or locked to see if in pushing the mask inward or outward at the bridge of the nose has an effect on mask leaks around the mouth.

40. Is the Aclaim still available?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No. Only Aclaim 2 masks are being manufactured.

41. Are any other future changes going to be made to the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare is always seeking ways to improve our products. If we hear customer and patient feedback regarding making changes to the Aclaim 2, we will look at making those future changes.

42. The Aclaim is too large for my face, will the Aclaim 2 fit the same?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes, the mask base mold is the same on both masks. The only difference is the lockable T-piece. This may help to push the mask outward from the bridge of the nose which will help to reduce vision obstructions that may have occurred if the mask was too large.

43. Which types of patients are best suited for the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: All types of patients can have success with the Aclaim 2. The foam cushion and silicone seal combination accommodates many different nose sizes and shapes. The large mask mold allows it to be suitable for small, narrow noses or large, wide noses without applying pressure to nasal airway mechanics. Patients who move frequently in bed are great candidates because the glider system keeps the mask from dislodging.

44. What is the purpose of the glider on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Patient freedom. The glider allows the headgear to move without changing the mask position. Patients are able to avoid mask leak when changing sleeping positions.

45. My glider keeps breaking, what can I do?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 is equipped with a new clear glider that is stronger than the previous white glider on the Aclaim. Due to modifications to the mask base, the glider will move more freely at a greater range of angles. These changes should help to prevent glider breaks. If necessary, gliders are available as a separate part that can be ordered and a spare glider is provided in each Aclaim 2 box.

46. Do I need to remove the glider when cleaning my Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No. It can remain in the mask base mold and cleaned with dishwashing detergent, shampoo, or soap when cleaning the mask base.

47. Does the Aclaim 2 have a stronger glider?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. Due to patient feedback, we have improved its strength.

 

48. What changes have been made to the glider on the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The new glider is clear instead of white and is stronger than the old glider on the Aclaim. Due to modifications to the mask base, the glider will move more freely at a greater range of angles. In addition, there are now hooks on both sides of the glider so that the headgear can be removed for cleaning without having to readjust the straps each time.

49. Is the Aclaim 2 latex-free?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes.

50. I have an allergic reaction/rash when I wear the Aclaim , what could this be from?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: None of the components of the Aclaim 2 should cause an allergic reaction. Many times the cleaners or detergents that are being used to clean the mask can be the culprits of the rash instead of a component of the actual mask.

51. I am left-handed and have difficulty getting my headgear on and off of the glider. What should I do?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The glider can be removed and reversed in direction so that you are removing the headgear from the side that is more comfortable for you. The new glider has openings on both sides of the glider which should make headgear removal easier.

52. Can I get spare gliders for my Aclaim 2 if I choose to?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. The Aclaim 2 is packaged with a spare glider and additional gliders are available as a separate spare part from your homecare company.

53. The glider on my Aclaim doesn't slide very easy- has this been changed on the new version of the mask?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. The openings on the mask base of the Aclaim 2 have been modified to allow the glider to move more freely at a greater range of angles.

54. Does the glider break easily?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No. The glider was developed to withstand high pressure and movement during the night so you should not see breaks. However, you must treat it carefully to prolong the life and performance of the glider.

55. Should I tighten the top or bottom straps first to eliminate leaks?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Always tighten the bottom straps to eliminate leaks. The top straps should be snug, but not tight. The top straps should not be adjusted to eliminate leaks.

56. Does the Aclaim 2 need to have the lower straps placed in the frown position?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No, this is not necessary in the Aclaim 2. The glider has been modified to accommodate error in strap placement so that it is no longer required.

57. I don't like having the tubing over my head, do I have another choice?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Not really. However, when fitting the Aclaim 2, if you have the T-piece in the locked position- you do not need to feed the tube through the headgear loop at the top which will allow more flexibility in the positioning above the head.

58. Does the Aclaim 2 have oxygen ports?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: We have a separate connector piece that has the oxygen ports on it. This can be ordered and attached, however oxygen is typically bled in at the outlet of the CPAP machine.

59. Do I have to secure the tubing into the headgear strap on the top of my head?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Only if the T-piece is in the unlocked position on the Aclaim 2.

60. How do I clean the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: When cleaning is necessary, disassemble the mask. Wash all parts except the foam cushion. Wash the headgear and diffuser in warm, soapy water and then rinse in fresh water before drying. Dishwashing detergent, shampoo, or soap are suitable solutions for cleaning the mask. Wipe the foam cushion clean with a damp cloth or sponge and leave to dry. Every 7 days, rinse the diffuser under cold running water and handwash the headgear using a mild household detergent.

61. How much does the Aclaim 2 cost?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 is priced with other masks on the market. I would call around to homecare companies for the best price.

 

62. My homecare company does not have the Aclaim 2 yet- how can I get one?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Homecare companies have the ability to order any products that patients request. Tell them that you want them to order an Aclaim 2 for you.

63. How long has the Aclaim 2 been on the market?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The Aclaim 2 was just released in June 2002.

64. My insurance company doesn't pay for the Aclaim 2, what can I do?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Insurance companies do not differentiate between nasal interfaces. They will pay for any nasal mask- it just depends if you are eligible for a new mask according to their regulations.

65. Can I wear glasses with the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Probably not- but some have.

66. I get nasal congestion with my Aclaim- what can I do to reduce this?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Nasal congestion is a huge problem faced by nasal CPAP users. To combat this- heated humidifiers have been created. I would suggest that if you aren't using heated humidity- talk to you homecare company and see if you can get one. Make sure that you ask for a heater with Ambient Trackingä from Fisher & Paykel Healthcare. If you are using one, adjust the heater plate settings to maximize humidity levels or adjust the room temperature.

67. Does the Aclaim 2 have a mask replacement program for sleep labs?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Yes. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare provides silicone seals and foam cushions to each lab that is set up on the program. These can be given to the patient when leaving the lab after their sleep study.

68. Is the Aclaim 2 difficult to assemble?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: No. It is packaged fully assembled and ready to fit.

 

69. Why does the Aclaim 2 have so many parts?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: In developing this mask, Fisher & Paykel Healthcare wanted to focus on patient comfort and compliance instead of just making a cheap simple mask. Each part of the Aclaim 2 is a key component in increasing patient comfort.

70. I really like the Aclaim 2. What other products do Fisher & Paykel Healthcare make?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: Our company has pioneered heated humidification in the sleep arena and of recent we have revolutionized heated humidification with a new technology called Ambient Trackingä. Currently we have our integrated CPAP machine with heated humidifier (HC220/221) and our stand alone heated humidifier (HC150). In addition, we have also developed the first oral CPAP device (Oracle) where the patient breathes in and out solely through their mouth.

71. What are the comfort features of the Aclaim 2?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The unique nasal cushion and silicone seal are designed to fit different nose shapes giving greater comfort. The lockable T-piece reduces pressure on the bridge of the nose. The Breathoprene headgear is cool and lightweight.

 

72. Will the mask move when I change position?

Jillian Gery, Fisher&Paykel Healthcare answers: The "gliding" mechanism allows the headgear to move without changing the mask position avoiding potential leaks.

This concludes our special event chat! Feel free to now enter the sleep apnea chat room and continue open conversation! We graciously thank Jillian Gery with Fisher & Paykel Healthcare for her participation and we thank you for joining in! Please join in our next special events moderated chat on Oracle with Fisher & Paykel. The date will be announced on our Chat Calendar page...stay tuned! Good night and sleep well.