EQUIPMENT GUIDE

Contrary to the high-priced BiPAP machines often seen in the ED, BiPAP machines are relatively inexpensive and highly portable. The two main brands, Respironics and ResMed, dominate the market, and there are many units available secondhand. Thanks to insurance covering combo CPAP/BiPAP devices, the used market is flooded with options.

 

Be sure to purchase extra tubing and masks, and ensure the BiPAP model includes humidified oxygen and a BiPAP sanitizing machine. These systems can be bought for anywhere between $300 to $1000. We recommend having at least one per team or department in the field. Before and especially after COVID, BiPAP/CPAP machines have become common consumer items and are not as prohibitively expensive as hospital-grade equipment. You can often find them donated at places like Goodwill or donation warehouses.

While there are no specific travel options for BiPAP, there are plenty for CPAP. For a reliable traveling CPAP, we recommend the ResMed AirMini. This well-known and well-tested consumer product comes packed with features. It's a great minimum requirement if you need some extra airway support on the go.

 

In addition to standard cleaning products, you can use UV sterilizers, which are now inexpensively available on Amazon.

The Respironics BiPAP Vision is a full-size, hospital-grade BiPAP device. These machines are workhorses, tested to last thousands of hours. If you need a long-lasting hospital unit, this is our top recommendation. Post-COVID, the prices of these machines have dropped significantly, making them one of the more affordable respiratory devices to acquire.

 

By understanding the different options and selecting the right equipment, you can ensure effective respiratory support both in the field and in hospital settings.