ApnoeaLink Instructions for Patient
- The equipment you have been issued with has your details already programmed into the device.
- Please remove any nail varnish or acrylic nails prior to performing the test.
- We ask you to wear the device over clothing, for example a Pyjama top or a clean t shirt so that it is not next to your skin.
- Please do not smoke while wearing the equipment.
- Please take you medication as usual, unless instructed to do so.
- Be aware we need at least 4 hours for a study to be valid.
Set Up
- Connect the Belt
- One side of the belt of ApnoeaLink device is already attached, draw the belt around your back and then thread the belt through the buckle at the other end into the opposite side of the ApnoeaLink device. Ensure the belt is not twisted.
- Adjust the tension of the belt so there is a “snug” fit but is not uncomfortable.
- The belt should sit underneath your armpits and the device itself sits in the centre of your chest.
2. Connect The Cannula
- Loop the cannula around the ears and under your chin. The nasal prongs should be facing upwards inside the nostril. Adjust the slider under your chin to secure it into place. Tape the cannula to your face to secure it further.
- Screw the Cannula into the side of the ApnoeaLink where the filter is, turning clockwise to secure.
3. Connect the Finger Probe
- Place the finger probe onto any finger (the finger nail should not have nail varnish or acrylic nail on).
- The cable will rest on top of the finger and along the back of your hand.
- Tape the wire to you hand to secure it into place. Please do not place any tape around the finger probe.
- The connector from the finger probe slides onto the belt to stop it getting tangled.
Once everything is in place you should look like this:
4. Turn the Device ON
- Press and hold the power button for 3 seconds or until the light comes on.
- Make sure the light that corresponds to each sensor is green, if any of these are red or flashing it means the sensor is not attached correctly.
- Over the next 10 minutes these icons will turn off but the device will still be running.
5. Go to bed – Please sleep in you natural sleeping position.
6. If you get up in the night to visit the bathroom, leave the belt on around your chest and the cannula, you may remove the finger probe until you get back into bed.
Troubleshooting
During the night if you wake and notice an amber icon light flashing, adjust the sensor that is indicated until it turns to green and again disappears.
If you have adjusted the sensor to the best of your ability and it continues to flash please continue with the study we may have enough data, but be aware we may have to ask you to repeat the study at a later date.
In The Morning
- When you are done sleeping, remove the sensors and the device. Turn the device off by pressing and holding the power button for 3 seconds to stop the recording, then for a further 3 seconds to switch the device of.
- Throw the cannula and tape away.
- Return the device and the finger probe back to the box.
- Complete all paperwork and questionnaires.
RETURN THE Apnoea Link & QUESTIONNAIRES AS ARRANGED.