How can I stop tearing of the neckseal?
First and foremost: a smooth, non-jagged edge must be obtained. Before stretching the opening over the patient's head, hand fold the cut edge slightly so that the stretching occurs at the fold and not at the cut edge. Please reference the following directions for use:

What is the best way to cut the neckseal to size?
It is our suggestion to first measure the patient's neck size. Look to the chart included in the directions for use for the rib location closest to target size, so that the patient doesn't feel choked, and cut the neckseal smaller than the neck measurement by your normal undersize fit.Cut with sharp scissors making sure that the finished edge is a single continuous smooth edge with no jagged edges. The jagged edges will create a tear location. Please reference the above directions for use to view trim chart for neckseal.

What type of lubricant do I need for the neckseal ring?
The neckseal ring is approved for oxygen compatible lubricants. This includes brands such as Christo-Lube™ (PN1000). You can buy direct from Sea-Long if you wish!

What to do when the hood and neckseal ring are too tight or loose.
When you find that the neckseal is too tight or difficult to separate, this is most often caused by a non-lubricated o-ring or sealing surface. Lubricate the o-ring or sealing surface with Christo-Lube™ or an oxygen compatible lubricant. Sometimes if an excess amount is added to the 300 Series, this can cause the rings to separate esaily.

Powdering the neckseal after cleaning.
The best way to powder the neckseal after cleaning to prevent the neckseal from sticking together is done with a powder puff and talcom powder or corn powder.

How does the Trachea Accessory work?
The trachea accessory was designed especially for the trachea patient. If the trachea patient has a traditional 'Jackson' or 'Shylee' trachea, the PN600 fits perfectly over the opening! The swivel actions deters from pulling on the often sensitive skin area surrounding the trachea, and the connector piece allows the inhale and exhale tubing to connect without using the hood.

What flow rate is used with the Trachea Accessory?
This can be tricky, and will vary with patients, so consult your patient on what is comfortable for them! We have surveyed and found that often a flow rate of 15 lpm to 30 lpm has been successful. You must monitor blood oxygen levels.

What are the differences between the Series 500 and the Series 300?
The Series 300 consist of the following components: PN312 - Assembly, PN115 - Neckseal, PN116 - Tape-on Neckdam, PN301 - Visor Hood. This system has only two ports, located on the hood and comes with the latex neckseal. This is the original headtent produced since 1986.

The Series 500 consist of the following components: PN500NL (100% latex free version), PN500L (latex version), PN520 (Hood) and PN550 (Neckseal). The Series 500 hood is completely welded to the hood, the neckseal is available in 100% latex free and latex versions. The ports are located on the hood and on the neckseal ring, totaling 4 to choose from. The Series 500 is fairly compatible with all other hood systems, so that the components will interchange if necessary in most cases.

Can I use the Series 500 Neckseal Ring with my present hood system?
YES, in most cases. The Series 500 Neckseal ring and hood will fit most current hood delivery systems on the market! We have found some inconsistencies with the competitions ring sizes where the fit is sometimes too loose and leaks. Make sure to check for proper lubrication needed for a good seal and fit.

Why does the visor fog up sometimes?
Fogging on the visor can occur because of high humidity % inside the hood.  It often times can be eradicated by changing the nebulizer settings and adjusting the flow rate, or even utilizing the ports on the Neckseal Ring can help!

My patient has a stoma, what can I use?
The "Tape-on-neckdam" is available for patients with a stoma.. In early 2008, we are introducing a new version of the tape on neckdam to use with the replacable line of products.!