General
Fitting and adjusting the interface
Chin support band
Tubing management
Removing/attaching the cushion
Cushion, flap and headgear
Cleaning
General
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What is the ComfortGel Blue?
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ComfortGel Blue is a traditional nasal mask used to deliver positive airway pressure (PAP) to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Traditional nasal masks are the most popular type of mask, because they provide reliable performance and have proven themselves for decades. ComfortGel Blue comes complete with a gel cushion (sizes P, S, M, L), Comfort Flap, and headgear.
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How does it work?
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ComfortGel Blue relies on a soft blue gel cushion for support and a Comfort Flap to gently seal around the nose. The mask is then secured on the face, over the nose, by a comfortable fabric headgear. The mask also uses a forehead pad to stabilize the mask on the face and adjusts to help prevent air leaks and pressure points.
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How does ComfortGel Blue compare to other traditional nasal masks?
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ComfortGel Blue is the next generation of gel nasal mask from Philips Respironics. Its predecessor—ComfortGel—is the most popular traditional nasal mask in the world because of its exceptional comfort and its ability to provide a quick, easy seal. ComfortGel Blue takes ease-of-use, comfort, seal, and reliability to the next level.
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Are there any limitations on using ComfortGel Blue?
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No. ComfortGel Blue can be used with all Respironics sleep and non-invasive ventilation devices, including Philips Respironics Sleep Therapy systems with System One Resistance Control, REMstar systems, BiPAP systems, OmniLab systems, Trilogy Systems in specified modes as outlined in the instructions for use, and SleepEasy.
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How do I know if the ComfortGel Blue is right for me?
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The ComfortGel Blue nasal mask is available by prescription and is intended to provide nasal delivery of CPAP or bi-level therapy for patients more than 66 pounds (30 kg). The ComfortGel Blue is not suitable for providing life support ventilation. Talk to your physician to discuss whether this is the right mask for you.
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What information comes with ComfortGel Blue?
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ComfortGel Blue includes a pictorial quick fitting guide and an instruction manual. Inserted in the instruction manual are a registration card, a replacement reminder card, and a reminder sticker that can help track and manage your mask replacement cycle. Instructions also can be found on this Web site.
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Will any plastic contact my face when I wear ComfortGel Blue?
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No. Only the headgear, Comfort Flap, and forehead pad will contact your face when wearing this mask.
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What are the numbers on the bottom of the ComfortGel Blue plastic faceplate?
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The numbers that appear on the bottom of ComfortGel Blue’s faceplate represent the mask part number and the lot number, which indicates the date of manufacture (YYMMDD). These numbers are used to track the product and allow for detailed user registration.
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What are the other letters and numbers on the bottom of the ComfortGel Blue Comfort Flap?
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The “X1” printed on the bottom of the Comfort Flap indicates the System One resistance setting. System One Resistance Control optimizes system comfort by enabling the device and mask to work together. The technology instructs the device to compensate for variable resistance characteristics related to different masks. Your provider may lock the resistance compensation setting on your device based on the mask they provided you. Before changing the size or type of your mask or cushion, contact your homecare provider to determine if the System One setting on your device also needs to be changed. System One Resistance Control is available on the Philips Respironics System One Therapy System introduced in 2009. The other letter indicates the size of the flap – either P for petite, S for small, M for medium, or L for large.
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Fitting and adjusting the interface
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How do I place ComfortGel Blue on my face and adjust the fit?
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Tools are available on this Web site to help you fit and adjust the ComfortGel Blue mask. Click below to access these tools: Fitting videos Patient and clinician fitting guide
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How do I remove ComfortGel Blue from my face?
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To remove the mask, disconnect one or both Quick Clip(s) from their socket(s) on the clear plastic faceplate. Grasp the back headgear strap and pull the headgear forward over the head.
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Chin support band
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Can the ComfortGel Blue be used with a chin strap?
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Yes. For best results, put on the chin strap first and then put on the ComfortGel Blue over top of it.
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Tubing management
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Can I use standard CPAP tubing with ComfortGel Blue?
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Yes, the interface is designed to work with standard six-foot CPAP tubing. However, for best results with a lighter overall weight, use the Respironics Performance Tubing. Traditional tubing can sometimes pull on the mask, especially if the tubing falls off of the bed and the weight of the tubing pulls on the mask. The Performance Tubing is 20% lighter than our traditional tubing and is much more flexible. It provides a more forgiving connection to the device, since it is less likely to apply pull or torque to the mask and disrupt the seal.
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Can I direct the tubing over my head?
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Yes. The swivel elbow located on the front of the interface can rotate to permit the tubing to be directed straight down, to the side, or over the head.
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Removing/attaching the cushion
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How do I remove and attach the cushion for ComfortGel Blue?
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Remove the gel cushion by first detaching the Comfort Flap with its integrated retaining ring from the faceplate. Do this by unhooking the side and bottom clips of the ring from their connection points on the faceplate. The flap and cushion are two separate pieces. Clean or discard the gel cushion as necessary. To install the cushion, place the clean or new gel cushion onto the faceplate. Then place the Comfort Flap over the gel cushion and push the retaining ring into the faceplate until you hear several clicks and the Comfort Flap snaps into place. Tug on the Comfort Flap lightly to confirm it is secured.
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Cushion, flap and headgear
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Are the cushion, flap and headgear replaceable?
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ComfortGel Blue’s cushion, flap, and headgear are designed to be periodically replaced. Check with your medical equipment provider for the appropriate replacement interval.
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Cleaning
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How often should I clean ComfortGel Blue?
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Hand clean the mask following the instructions below prior to its first use. Thereafter, the mask and tubing should be cleaned daily for best results. The headgear should be cleaned weekly.
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How should I clean the ComfortGel Blue?
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The Instructions for Use included with ComfortGel Blue contains detailed cleaning instructions. Instructions also can be found on this Web site. Be sure to thoroughly clean the interface and cushion using a mild liquid dishwashing detergent (avoid using bleach, alcohol, strong household cleaners, and products using conditioners or moisturizers). Rinse thoroughly. Pat with a paper towel and air dry completely before use. Inspect all parts for damage or wear; replace if necessary. The headgear should be cleaned weekly or as needed, either by hand or machine washed in the gentle cycle with standard laundry detergent. Attach the headgear tabs to the headgear straps so they do not latch onto other items in the laundry. Line dry the headgear.
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