During stage N2 sleep, if the patient changes position and there is increased snoring and a rising leak, the tech should:

During stage N2 sleep, if the patient changes position and there is increased snoring and a rising leak, the tech should:

• A. Increasing CPAP
• B. Reposition and adjust PAP interface
• C. Decrease pressure release ventilation
• D. Increase heated humidification

Answer: (B)

When a patient changes position during sleep and you see more snoring along with a rising mask leak, the issue is a compromised mask seal rather than a need for higher pressure. The best action is to reposition the patient and adjust the PAP interface to restore the seal. Start by rechecking how the mask sits on the face, readjusting straps for even tension, and reseating or refitting the mask. If needed, switch to a different mask size or style that better matches the patient’s facial contours to eliminate the leak. Increasing CPAP pressure would address airway collapse only if patency were the problem, but with a leak-driven issue, higher pressure can worsen the leak and patient comfort. Decreasing any pressure relief feature isn’t helpful for a seal problem, and while increasing heated humidification may improve comfort, it won’t fix the leak.

When a patient changes position during sleep and you see more snoring along with a rising mask leak, the issue is a compromised mask seal rather than a need for higher pressure. The best action is to reposition the patient and adjust the PAP interface to restore the seal. Start by rechecking how the mask sits on the face, readjusting straps for even tension, and reseating or refitting the mask. If needed, switch to a different mask size or style that better matches the patient’s facial contours to eliminate the leak. Increasing CPAP pressure would address airway collapse only if patency were the problem, but with a leak-driven issue, higher pressure can worsen the leak and patient comfort. Decreasing any pressure relief feature isn’t helpful for a seal problem, and while increasing heated humidification may improve comfort, it won’t fix the leak.