INTRODUCTION TO THE VENTILATOR
Ensure you know why the patient needs Non Invasive Ventilatory support.
CPAP is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It provides a positive pressure of air through the nose
and mouth, stenting open the upper-airway, preventing the bronchioles and alveoli from collapsing
and maintaining adequate gaseous exchange. Measured in centimetres of water (cmH2O).
BIPAP is BI-level Positive Airway Pressure and this provides two pressures; an IPAP (Inspiratory positive
airway pressure) and an EPAP (Expiratory positive airway pressure). It assists inspiration to achieve an
optimal tidal volume, while preventing airway closure during expiration.
Three main Long Term NIV ventilators in the Trust
Stellar 100/150 Nippy Airsense 10
CPAP/BIPAP CPAP/BIPAP CPAP
How to connect to main power supply
Ensure the plug is securely in the socket at the back of the ventilator and the plug at the wall is
switched on.
If mains power is not connected
The Stellar 100 has a 2-4 hr internal battery depending on pressure needed and if humidification is
required. The vent will automatically switch to battery mode and alarm to inform you. Amount of
battery charge is shown on the top right of vent screen.
The Nippy has a 2-4 hour battery depending on pressure. The amount of battery charge is shown on
the top right of vent screen.
The Airsense 10 does not have a battery therefore cannot be used unless plugged into the mains. If a
child is more dependent on their ventilation they should be on either the Nippy or the Stellar
To note -the older the ventilator the less likely the ventilator will have a fully functional battery.
Always keep the ventilator plugged in and carry out a battery test if needed to be used.
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