Case Studies - Sleepnet Corporation

Customer case studies

Use Case: Enhanced Pediatric Care with the Mini Me 2 NIV Mask

A leading pediatric hospital in the United States, renowned for its commitment to cutting-edge treatments and patient-centric care, sought a partnership with Sleepnet Corporation to introduce the Mini Me 2 Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) mask. This use case explores the motivations behind this collaboration, the implementation process, and the outcomes achieved. 

Background 

The pediatric hospital referenced above is a state-of-the-art facility known for its comprehensive pediatric care, ranging from routine check-ups to complex surgeries. Even with advanced capabilities, the hospital occasionally faced challenges in providing adequate respiratory support for children with acute and chronic respiratory conditions. In some cases, the pediatric NIV masks they used failed to provide a comfortable and effective fit for young patients, leading to suboptimal outcomes and skin breakdown.  While there is no “perfect mask” that suits every patient (Critical Pediatrics 2024, Comprehensive Guide to Pediatric NIV Mask Selection, Types, Troubleshooting and more), the Sleepnet Mini Me 2 solved some of these issues.

Research shows that medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs) are a common complication, with the incidence of skin breakdown in pediatric patients using NIV masks ranging from 10% to 20%. These injuries primarily occur at contact points where the mask exerts pressure, such as the nasal bridge and cheeks. Studies conducted in pediatric hospitals reveal that factors such as prolonged NIV use, poor mask fit, and the fragile skin of pediatric patients contribute to the high prevalence of these injuries (Respiratory Care Journal 2019, Noninvasive Ventilation Device-Related Pressure Injury in a Children’s Hospital).

The Challenge 

The hospital identified the following concerns regarding its respiratory care program: 

Comfort and Fit: Some of the NIV masks used did not fit well on pediatric patients, causing discomfort and skin irritation.

Efficacy: Inadequate mask fit resulted in poor mask efficacy and therapy, leading to extended hospital stays and increased healthcare costs.

Usage: To provide the highest quality of care, the hospital required masks that were easy to use and fit onto patients. However, some pediatric masks used by the hospital were difficult to assemble and fit on patients, which created non-compliance issues in acute care and home care settings.

Availability: The limited availability of pediatric NIV masks further complicated efforts to standardize respiratory care across the hospital.

The Solution 

To address these challenges, the hospital partnered with Sleepnet Corporation, a leader in respiratory care solutions. Sleepnet’s Mini Me 2 NIV mask, designed specifically for pediatric patients ages 2 to 12, offered a promising solution. Given that mask selection is a key determinant of the successful implementation of non-invasive respiratory support (Respiratory Care Journal 2017, Noninvasive Respiratory Support in Infants and Children), Sleepnet’s mask was an ideal addition to the hospital’s existing portfolio of pediatric masks. The Mini Me 2 mask includes the following product features: 

Custom Fit Technology: Allows personalization, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit for various pediatric facial structures.

AIRgel Technology: A soft, pliable material that minimizes discomfort and skin irritation.

Easy to use: The masks are manufactured with durable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability.  Available in four sizes (XS, S, M, and L) with two 5-point adjustment strap-style headgear, the mask is designed to provide an optimal fit and superior seal with less pressure – an essential feature for patient care.

Immediate Availability: Manufactured in the USA, Sleepnet’s commitment to immediate availability ensured a steady supply of Mini Me 2 masks to the hospital, mitigating any possible issues with the need for timely treatment.

Implementation 

The implementation process involved several key steps: 

Training and Education: Sleepnet provided comprehensive training sessions for the hospital’s respiratory therapists, nurses, and physicians. These sessions covered mask-fitting techniques, patient management, and troubleshooting.

Pilot Program: Sleepnet initiated a pilot program to evaluate the effectiveness of the Mini Me 2 mask in a controlled setting. Selected patients with varying respiratory conditions were enrolled.

Data Collection and Analysis: Throughout the pilot, data on patient comfort, compliance, mask efficacy, and overall outcomes were collected and analyzed.

Results 

The partnership yielded impressive results: 

Improved Patient Comfort: The custom fit and AIRgel technology significantly improved patient comfort and reduced skin irritation, leading to higher compliance rates. Clinicians reported less discomfort and anxiety for patients when using the Mini Me 2 mask.

Enhanced Ventilation Efficacy: The improved fit resulted in better therapy performance, reducing the need for extended respiratory support and decreasing the average length of hospital stays.

Positive Feedback from Healthcare Providers: Respiratory therapists and nurses appreciated the ease of fitting and adjusting the Mini Me 2 mask, which streamlined their workflow and allowed for more efficient patient care.

Cost Savings: Reduced hospital stays and improved patient outcomes translated into significant cost savings for the hospital.

Quality Assurance: The Mini Me 2 mask’s durable, easy-to-use design ensured consistent, high-quality care.

Improved Availability: The steady supply of masks ensured that all pediatric patients needing respiratory support received prompt and effective treatment.

Conclusion 

This strategic collaboration between the pediatric hospital and Sleepnet Corporation exemplifies the transformative power of innovative medical devices in enhancing patient care. The success of this initiative underscores the critical role of strong collaborations in driving healthcare innovation, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and well-being for patients. As healthcare continues to evolve, such partnerships will remain pivotal in shaping a future where advanced medical technologies and effective collaboration converge to deliver exceptional care.

*This article does not disclose or publish identifying customer information.

August 29, 2024

Preventing Skin Breakdown in NIV Mask Users: Introducing Sleepnet’s AIR°gel® Technology

Articles, Case Studies, News & Updates

Introduction

In hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) settings, patients often require non-invasive ventilation (NIV) masks to support their respiratory needs. While these masks are crucial for patient care, they can sometimes lead to skin breakdown and discomfort, particularly around the nasal bridge. In response to these problems, Sleepnet, a leading provider of medical devices, developed a revolutionary technology called AIR°gel®. All Sleepnet masks utilize AIR°gel®, which helps to mitigate skin breakdown, offering enhanced comfort and protection to patients.

Sleepnet’s AIR°gel® Technology

AIR°gel® is an innovative gel technology developed by Sleepnet. Designed with ergonomics in mind, it provides a cushioning effect that adjusts to the shape of the patient’s nasal bridge. This customized fit ensures optimal contact and dissipates the pressure exerted on the skin, significantly lowering the risk of skin breakdown and related complications.

Skin Breakdown in NIV Mask Users

“Noninvasive ventilation refers to the delivery of assisted ventilatory support without the use of an endotracheal tube. Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) can be delivered by using a volume-controlled ventilator, a pressure-controlled ventilator, a bilevel positive airway pressure ventilator, or a continuous positive airway pressure device. During the past decade, there has been a resurgence in the use of noninvasive ventilation, fueled by advances in technology” (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/action/showPdf?pii=S0025-6196%2811%2964786-1. Accessed 7/24/2023). “However, there are potential problems with its clinical application and the development of skin breakdown” (International Wound Journal. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7950763/. Accessed 7/11/2023). Patients who rely on NIV masks for breathing support may experience skin breakdown due to several factors. Prolonged mask use as well as inadequate mask fitting can cause pressure ulcers, irritation, redness, and even tissue damage. “Moisture and heat develop on the surface of the skin beneath the mask, which alters the skin surface and increases the potential for skin breakdown. Repeated adjustment of the NIV mask to maintain adequate ventilation can contribute to friction and shear on the surface of the skin,” (RT Magazine. www.rtmagazine.com. Accessed 7/11/2023).

Consider the following scenarios where skin breakdown occurs in NIV mask users:

Scenario 1: Pediatric Patient

Emily is a 7-year-old child admitted to the pediatric ICU due to respiratory distress caused by pneumonia. The medical team decides to provide non-invasive ventilation (NIV) using a mask to support her breathing. Over the course of several days, Emily’s skin begins to show signs of breakdown around her nasal bridge due to prolonged use of the NIV mask.

Despite the medical team’s efforts to adjust the mask and provide additional padding, Emily’s delicate skin becomes red, irritated, and even starts developing pressure ulcers. This condition causes significant discomfort and pain for Emily, leading to increased agitation and difficulty cooperating with the necessary treatments. The skin breakdown becomes a concern for the medical team as it can delay the healing process and hinder Emily’s overall recovery.

Scenario 2: Elderly Patient

John, an 80-year-old patient, is admitted to the hospital’s intensive care unit after experiencing acute respiratory failure. To facilitate his breathing, the medical team decides to administer non-invasive ventilation using a mask. As the days go by, John’s skin, particularly around his nasal bridge, begins to deteriorate.

His skin becomes increasingly fragile due to aging and the prolonged pressure exerted by the NIV mask. Despite the medical staff’s attempts to reposition the mask and provide cushioning, John develops skin breakdown with areas of redness, blistering, and even open wounds. The skin breakdown not only causes physical discomfort for John but also increases the risk of infection and delays his recovery.

In both scenarios, skin breakdown in NIV mask users highlights the importance of finding effective solutions to minimize this issue. Sleepnet’s AIR°gel® masks may play a crucial role in preventing skin breakdown, offering a cushioning effect that reduces pressure on the skin and adapts to the unique facial features of pediatric patients like Emily and elderly patients like John. By incorporating AIR°gel® technology, medical professionals may be able to enhance patient comfort, promote skin integrity, and support a faster recovery process.

The Benefits of AIR°gel®

The primary objective of AIR°gel® technology is to protect the skin and the nasal bridge that is in contact with the mask, minimizing irritation and increasing overall comfort for patients. Here are some key benefits offered by Sleepnet’s AIR°gel® technology:

Enhanced Comfort: The gel’s cushioning effect creates a soft and gentle interface between the mask and the skin. It helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing the likelihood of discomfort and pain associated with extended mask use.
Skin Protection: By reducing pressure on the nasal bridge, AIR°gel® helps mitigate the risk of skin breakdown and pressure ulcers. It acts as a barrier, minimizing friction and shear forces that can compromise skin integrity.
Optimal Seal: Sleepnet’s commitment to ergonomic design ensures that the mask fits comfortably and securely on various facial shapes and sizes, providing a reliable seal and optimal functionality.

Sleepnet strives to deliver effective, innovative, and cost-effective products that prioritize customer satisfaction. By integrating AIR°gel® technology into their NIV masks, Sleepnet addresses a crucial concern in patient care, offering a solution that promotes comfort, reduces the risk of skin breakdown, and enhances overall well-being.

Skin breakdown in patients who wear NIV masks is a significant concern in hospital and ICU settings. Sleepnet’s AIR°gel® technology represents a breakthrough in addressing this issue, providing a cushioning effect that minimizes pressure on the skin and nasal bridge. With a focus on comfort and protection, AIR°gel® technology ensures that patients receive the respiratory support they need without compromising their skin integrity. Sleepnet’s commitment to customer satisfaction through effective and innovative solutions reinforces their position as a leading provider of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure masks, Noninvasive Ventilation masks, Pediatric masks, and Respirators.

August 3, 2023