Respiratory Aids

Course Aim
There are a number of chronic respiratory conditions that require the use of respiratory aids to support the older person. This course will demonstrate the importance of oxygen therapy, inhaled medications, nebulisers, CPAP, and BiPAP machines.
Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate the use of equipment such as oxygen concentrators, portable or ambulatory oxygen systems, inhaled medications, nebuliser compressors, CPAP, and BiPAP machines
Describe their storage and maintenance
Describe the safe use of respiratory aids and implement troubleshooting strategies
Why is this course important?
Many of us take breathing easily for granted…but imagine if each breath was a struggle. Our respiratory health has a huge impact on our quality of life, and our ability to perform the activities of daily living.
Respiratory conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia and tuberculosis (TB) affect millions of people worldwide. Over 200 million people suffer from COPD and 350 million are affected by asthma. Pneumonia and TB kill 2.4 million people and 1.4 million people respectively each year.
Respiratory aids including inhalers, nebulisers, and oxygen therapy equipment, are vital tools in managing respiratory conditions, and are routinely used by the older people in our care.
Proper use of respiratory aids can enhance the effectiveness of treatment. Many older people might struggle with the correct administration of these aids owing to physical limitations or cognitive decline. With the proper training, staff can provide critical assistance, ensuring that the aids are used correctly and that medication is administered as prescribed.
Understanding respiratory aids also allows staff to identify and address potential issues promptly. Recognising the signs of equipment malfunction or misuse can prevent complications such as inadequate oxygen levels or ineffective medication delivery.
Skilled staff can also educate residents and their families about the importance of using respiratory aids properly. This empowerment enables residents to take an active role in their own care, promoting independence and self-management of their respiratory conditions.
The more we understand about the best practice use and maintenance of respiratory aids, the better the care we can deliver, ultimately optimising outcomes for our older people.
Proficiency in the use and management of respiratory aids is integral to providing high-quality, person-centred care. It ensures that residents receive the necessary support to maintain respiratory health, improving their overall well-being.
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