If you have used an affected BiPAP or CPAP machine and are feeling ill, continue reading to learn the next steps you should take next.
What should I do if I am feeling ill after using an affected device?
Speaking with your healthcare provider is the first step you should take if you are feeling ill after using an affected device. Your healthcare provider will assist you in determining which treatment method is best suitable for your condition. They may suggest a variety of different methods including the following common plans of action:
If your health care provider determines that the benefits outweigh the risks identified in the recall notification, continue to use your affected device.
- Stop all use of the device.
- Use another similar device that is not part of the recall.
- Initiate long-term therapies for sleep apnea such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol, stopping smoking, or surgical options for moderate to severe sleep apnea cases.
- Use alternative treatments for sleep apnea such as positional therapy or oral appliances.
You will also want to collect any medical records if you seek treatment regarding your illness. This will build your defective medical device claim, should you chose to take legal action in the future. With this in mind, it is important that you document your illness as thoroughly as possible. Photograph the product and store the item somewhere where it cannot be tampered with if you and your medical provider have decided it is best to stop the use of the device. It is almost important that you save any documentation regarding the purchase of the defective product and any further relevant records such as the prescription for the device.
You should also register your device on the Phillips Respironics’ recall website that will provide you with updates regarding any corrective instructions. Next, you should report any issues you have encountered with the device through the FDA’s MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form.
If you have chosen to keep your device, it is important that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding replacement and cleaning the machine and its accessories. Ozone cleaners may worsen the breakdown of the foam which can cause a potential risk associated with the use of ozone and ultraviolet light products for cleaning CPAP machines and accessories.
If you have any additional questions regarding taking legal action in a defective medical device claim, give our experienced defective medical device attorney a call today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED TEXAS FIRM
Brock & Goetzmann has significant experience representing victims of defective medical devices in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. If you have been impacted in any way by a defective medical device, preserve the evidence and call us to investigate. Give our experienced Texas firm a call today to schedule your initial consultation.
