Evaluation of Solar-Powered Battery Systems for Individuals Using Electricity-Dependent Medical Devices in Puerto Rico Following Hurricane Maria

Abstract Objectives: To determine if solar-powered battery systems could be successfully used for electricity-dependent medical devices by families during a power outage. Methods: We assessed the use of and satisfaction with solar-powered battery systems distributed to 15 families following Hurricane Maria in rural Puerto Rico. Interviews were conducted in July 2018, 3 mo following distribution of the systems. Results: The solar-powered battery systems powered refrigeration for medications and prescribed diets, asthma therapy, inflatable mattresses to prevent bedsores, and continuous positive airway pressure machines for sleep apnea. Despite some system problems, such as inadequate power, defective cables, and blown fuses, families successfully dealt with these issues with some outside help. Almost all families were pleased with the systems and a majority would recommend solar-powered battery systems to a neighbor. Conclusions: Families accepted and successfully used solar-powered battery systems to power medical devices. Solar-powered battery systems should be considered as alternatives to generators for power outages after hurricanes and other disasters. Additional research and analysis are needed to inform policy on increasing access to such systems.

Download Full-text

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy for the Treatment of Hypernasality: A Single Case Study

Perspectives on Speech Science and Orofacial Disorders ◽

10.1044/ssod24.2.48 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 24 (2) ◽

pp. 48-58 ◽

Cited By ~ 3

Author(s):

Lakshmi Kollara ◽

Graham Schenck ◽

Jamie Perry

Keyword(s):

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure ◽

Airway Pressure ◽

Positive Airway Pressure ◽

Single Case ◽

Treatment Method ◽

Post Treatment ◽

Subjective Perception ◽

Cpap Therapy ◽

Long Term Follow Up

Studies have investigated the applications of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy in the treatment of hypernasality due to velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD; Cahill et al., 2004; Kuehn, 1991; Kuehn, Moon, & Folkins, 1993; Kuehn et al., 2002). The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of CPAP therapy to reduce hypernasality in a female subject, post-traumatic brain injury (TBI) and pharyngeal flap, who presented with signs of VPD including persistent hypernasality. Improvements in mean velopharyngeal orifice size, subjective perception of hypernasality, and overall intelligibility were observed from the baseline to 8-week post-treatment assessment intervals. Additional long-term assessments completed at 2, 3, and 4 months post-treatment indicated decreases in immediate post-treatment improvements. Results from the present study suggest that CPAP is a safe, non-invasive, and relatively conservative treatment method for reduction of hypernasality in selected patients with TBI. More stringent long-term follow up may indicate the need for repeated CPAP treatment to maintain results.

Download Full-text