Spring 2016 Newsletter

PLANNING TO TRAVEL THIS WINTER?

If you plan on travelling with your medical equipment, here are some tips to keep in mind:

For the CPAP Client:

  1. Carrying a valid medical prescription with your medical device when travelling will assist with the airport security and if there is a need for parts or assistance while away. Some international vendors may honour your prescription.
  2. Take your CPAP unit as "carry on" baggage when travelling by air plane. Placing your CPAP unit in your checked-in luggage increases the risk of having your unit lost, damaged or even stolen.
  3. If distilled or sterile water are not available and is required as part of therapy, clean water may be boiled and left to cool prior to use. Make sure any equipment used for the purposes of boiling and transferring are all clean.
  4. Consider travelling with CPAP disposable wipes to assist with keeping your mask clean.
  5. Take a second mask and/or extra accessories and parts if travelling for longer periods of time.
  6. Plan ahead! Be aware of the differences in the electricity in the country of travel. Most CPAP units will automatically adapt to the difference in voltage. All that is required is the proper adaptor plug that goes into the electric socket.
  7. Have fun and relax; we are just an email away!

For the Oxygen Client:

  1. Carrying a valid medical prescription with your medical device when travelling will assist with airport security and if oxygen is required during your travel as some international vendors will honour your prescription if arrangements have not been previously made.
  2. Travel with enough soft goods (i.e. nose pieces, connectors, extension tubing, etc.) for the duration of the trip.
  3. For portable oxygen concentrators, be aware of the differences in electricity in the country of travel. Most concentrators will adapt to the difference in voltage and all that is required is the proper adaptor plug that goes into the electric socket. Contact Breathe Easy for more information to determine if your oxygen concentrator is travel ready.
  4. The earlier the travel plans are known, the better we can prepare together. Whether you plan on travelling by air, bus or car, we are her to help.

Did you know that?

Most airlines will not permit oxygen cylinders and will require you to use their own oxygen system or a portable oxygen concentrator in flight. Via Rail and Greyhound have restrictions in regards to the use of portable oxygen cylinders.

What's New?

We've updated our website and changed our email. You can still find us at www.breatheeasy.net, but can now reach us at breatheeasyresp@gmail.com.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

  1. What should you take with you when you are travelling with medical equipment? (Hint: It's provided by your physician)
  2. How can you get a hold of us while on vacation? (Hint: We are a click away!)
  3. What's our new email address? (Hint: Gmail is our new home)