FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

OxyMask™’s revolutionary mask design is capable of delivering the entire range of oxygen therapy; (24 – 90% oxygen concentrations), in a safe and efficient manner. The oxygen concentration of OxyMask™ has been tested and documented in clinical studies. The study, Mathews and Gregg (2008)1, evaluate how the open design of the OxyArm™ and OxyMask™ affects oxygen delivery. Their study finds that the OxyMask™ does deliver 24-90% concentrations of oxygen. They even go as far to say that “OxyMask™ might indeed be the delivery device that solves that age-old problem of having to stock numerous kinds of oxygen masks. For further information related to Clinical Education, where to buy, or value analysis information, please contact us.

No, you do not need a high flow meter to use OxyMask™. The OxyMask™ will reach its maximum performance at approximately 15 liters. If additional flows are required, a normal flow meter on flush will deliver up to 60 lpm. You may choose to use a high flow meter to document the exact liter flow delivered but that is often not required if you are using a pulse oximeter.

Yes, the OxyMask™ can be used with a bubble humidifier, the same as one would use with a nasal cannula with flows from 1 to 6 litres per minute. But unlike a nasal cannula, the OxyMask™ does not cannulate an orifice and therefore, a bubble humidifier is usually not necessary. Additionally, during the patient’s inhalation, room air containing humidity is drawn in through the openings in the mask and is mixed with the prescribed oxygen flow.

Yes, the OxyMask™ can be used with a bubble humidifier, the same as one would use with a nasal cannula with flows from 1 to 6 litres per minute. But unlike a nasal cannula, the OxyMask™ does not cannulate an orifice and therefore, a bubble humidifier is usually not necessary. Additionally, during the patient’s inhalation, room air containing humidity is drawn in through the openings in the mask and is mixed with the prescribed oxygen flow.

Benefits to the clinician include:

• Cost Savings

  Product standardization and sku reduction
  Uses less oxygen than traditional oxygen interfaces

• The OxyMask™ works well on oxygen concentrators

• Time Savings

  Clinician’s time can be utilized for better focused care as oxygen flow can now be quickly titrated to meet the patient’s needs without changing delivery devices

• Medical Waste and Environmental Impact Reduction

  Reduces the amount of PVC and DEHP that leaches into the environment
  Will reduce emissions if disposed of by a medical waste incinerator
  With sku reduction, comes less waste

• Safety

  Highly efficient ‘open’ system that eliminates the need for a closed mask design, valves or reservoirs
  Reduces risk of CO2 rebreathing and aspiration of emesis
  Does not contain any natural rubber latex or phthalates such as DEHP

• Comfort

  Reduces feelings of claustrophobia
  Allows unrestricted communication with family, friends and caregivers
  Provides access for oral care, oral medications, drinking, and eating
  Lightweight design allows mask to sit lightly on the face

• Compliance

  Aids compliance of prescribed oxygen therapy by reducing interruptions

When using OxyMask or OxyArm at home, be sure to replace the device every 10 days if being used continuously, or every 30 days if using occasionally.

Discontinue use at first sign of wear or damage. If mask shell is dirty, it can be cleaned with a clean, damp cloth. Do not use any cleaning agents. Do not block or clog the diffuser cup and pin as this will stop the flow of oxygen.

Yes, all OxyMasks are free of natural rubber latex and phthalates such as DEHP.

Yes, OxyMask™ offers four codes that are non-PVC:

OM-7025-8 OxyMask Standard 7’ Tube
OP-7025-8 OxyMask Plus 7’ Tube
OK-7025-8 OxyMask Kid 7’ Tube
OT-7025-8 OxyMask Tyke 7’ Tube

No, the ETCO2 OxyMask™ will deliver between 24%-65% oxygen. This is because the OxyMask™ uses a different inverted sampling cup inside the diffuser to allow for better CO2 sampling.

Yes, FIO2 can be affected. To avoid changes in output, use back pressure compensated flow meters to make sure the delivered flow stays the same. In this case, extension tubing will not affect FIO2 because the oxygen delivery will be the same. And, as with all OxyMasks, simply adjust flow up or down to meet the patient’s required saturation.

Yes, code A4620 (Variable Concentration Mask) can be used when billing the Durable Medical Equipment Medicare Administrative Contractors (DME MACs). The assignment of this HCPCS code is not an approval or endorsement of OxyMask, nor does it imply or guarantee claim reimbursement or coverage. For billing and coverage information for your jurisdiction, there are three options:

1. Refer to your DME MAC Supplier Manual for coverage

2. Refer to your claim submission instructions

3. Contact your local DME MAC