361 Cleaning a Positive Expiratory Pressure (PEP) mask: an investigation of patient routines

Aim: Cleaning a Positive Expiratory Pressure masks (PEP) requires time and effort. Patients are advised to clean as follows; rinse daily with hot water, dry after each use and store in a dry space. This study evaluates actual routines used by patients. Method: 108/210 patient at a Belgian CF centre use a PEP mask as a therapy device. The Astra Tech PEP ® mask was investigated, other systems were excluded. 82 completed a self-administered questionnaire regarding cleaning routines; frequency and mode of cleaning/drying and method of storage. Results: Fifty-three of 82 patients report to use their PEP mask at least once daily. Twenty-six % (n 21) cleaned the mask at least once daily; 45% (n 33) cleaned 1 5 times a week and 19% (n 15) cleaned their mask less than once a week. 6% (n 5) of patients report to never clean their mask. Usual cleaning routines reported are: rinsing with hot water (72%, n 58), cleaning in a vinegar solution (16%, n 13), bleach water (9%, n 7), steam or electric sterilisation (2.5%, n 2) and dishwasher (9%, n 7). 84% take their mask apart before cleaning. 88% of patients dry the mask after cleaning. The following methods for drying were reported: paper towel (51%, n 36), kitchen towel (45%, n 32), shaking (27%, n 19), on the central heating (10%, n 7) and hairdryer (9%, n 6). Patients stored the mask as follows: in the accompanying bag (63%, n 49), in a cupboard (18%, n 14), in a kitchen towel (12%, n 9), on the sink (4%, n 3), on the central heating (n 1). 72% of patients started PEP therapy more than 3 years before the study Conclusions: Seventy-five percent of patients clean at least daily. Most patients clean their mask with hot water and dry it afterwards, in line with the hospital's advice. However, the frequency of cleaning the mask is not as often as recommended. 9. Physiotherapy