A guide to using a PEP mask, a handheld device used as part of your physiotherapy airway clearance routine.
What is PEP?
PEP stands for positive expiratory pressure. It is a method to help clear sputum from their lungs.
How does PEP mask work?
When you breath out through the mask, pressure builds up in your lungs which helps to keep the airways open, this also allows air to get behind sputum moving it more centrally towards the mouth making it easier to clear.
How to use a PEP mask
Assembly:
Your physiotherapist will discuss the appropriate set up for you. A series of colour-coded resistors will be provided with your PEP mask, the right sized resistor will be chosen by your physiotherapist to ensure the treatment is most effective for you.
Sometimes you will also be given a manometer to measure the pressure and guide your treatment. Make sure the manometer (if using) is attached to the ‘OUT’ arm of the PEP just before the coloured resistor.
Step by Step:
Your physiotherapist will show you how to use a PEP mask. This guide is a reminder
- Take any inhalers or nebulisers (as prescribed) to prepare
- Sit upright at a table elbows supported, use both hands to position mask over your nose and mouth, Alternative positions might be recommended by your physiotherapist
- Take a normal breath in through your nose
- Breath out through the PEP mask slightly harder than normal, aiming for pressures set by your physiotherapist (normal 10-20cmH2O if using a manometer)
- Keep the mask on your face and repeat as your physiotherapist has prescribed
- Remove the mask, huff and cough to clear any sputum
- Repeat as prescribed by your physiotherapist
- Take any inhalers or nebulisers (as prescribed)
It is helpful to always bring your PEP mask with your during any admissions or respiratory appointment.
How to clean your PEP mask
After each use
Separate into three parts (mask, valve section, resistor)
Wash in warm soapy water and rinse well, dry thoroughly and leave somewhere clean and warm to ensure a fast dry.
You can store in a clean plastic container with a lid and keep in a dust free environment
Once a week
Separate into three parts (mask, valve section, resistor)
Boil in pan of water for 10 minutes (see manufacturer’s instructions for more information)
Wipe dry and leave unassembled somewhere dry and clean
Until next use.
Paediatric Cystic Fibrosis and Respiratory unit
Any concerns or queries please contact the paediatric physiotherapy team.
