CPAP is a mechanical process requiring specialist equipment not currently carried on ambulances as standard apparatus. A mask is placed over the mouth and nose then secured by placing straps around the patients head. Once connected to an oxygen supply the mask feeds oxygen under slightly raised pressure into the lungs. By administering oxygen in this way fluid is essentially forced out of the lungs reducing pulmonary oedema and associated dyspnoea (Yasuyuki et al 2003).
In order to implement CPAP we would have had to request the attendance of a critical care paramedic as they carry such equipment.
The patient had responded well to nebulisation and observations were much improved (Text box 1). With this in mind and considering our close proximity
In order to implement CPAP we would have had to request the attendance of a critical care paramedic as they carry such equipment.
The patient had responded well to nebulisation and observations were much improved (Text box 1). With this in mind and considering our close proximity