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Blom-Singer® SpeakFree™ HME Instructions for Use
Insertion
To insert the device, grasp its outer rim and insert it partially into the lower rim of the previously
applied housing or laryngectomy tube. Gently push the device into the attachment housing or
tube until it snaps securely into place (diagram 4). Do not use the crossbar as a handle to insert
the device.
Care
The device is designed for daytime/awake use only and is not designed to be disassembled,
reassembled, or reused. If the device should become heavily soiled, remove it and replace with
a new device. If mucus is removed from the device, never use facial or toilet tissue as particles
of lint or fabric may be deposited onto the device that can be inhaled into the airway upon
reinsertion. Do not wash the device as this will result in loss of function.
Removal
To remove the device, hold the tracheostoma housing or laryngectomy tube in place with one
hand while pulling the device with the other hand until it releases (diagram 5). Do not use the
crossbar as a handle to remove the device.
Attaching/Removing Crossbar
To attach the optional crossbar, hold the device and press the crossbar onto the top of the
device until it snaps into place (diagram 6). To remove the crossbar, hold onto the device and
pull the crossbar away from the device until it releases (diagram 7). Do not attempt to place or
remove the crossbar while the device is attached to the tracheostoma.
Device Function
When properly adjusted, the valve remains in an open position during normal, quiet breathing
and routine physical activity. As the user exhales to speak, the airow pushes the valve into
the closed position to provide a seal for speech. When the user stops speaking or inhales,
the valve returns to its resting open position. This device can also be manually occluded to
produce speech by placing a nger or thumb over the opening at the top of the device when
the crossbar is detached. With the extremely high pressure of a cough, the valve may be forced
partially through the opening in the device. If this happens, remove the device and reposition
the valve with a clean ngertip.
Device Sensitivity Adjustment
The device is designed to accommodate the speech and breathing requirements of each
individual user by rotating the outer ring of the device clockwise or counterclockwise. Clockwise
rotation adjusts the valve to close more easily (diagram 3). Counterclockwise rotation adjusts
the valve to require greater eort (respiratory airow) to close (diagram 8). Set the device to
a more closed position during speech and adjust it to a more open position during increased
respiratory exertion (e.g. during physical exercise).
To adjust the device while seated in the tracheostoma housing, the user should rst stabilize the
base of the housing with one hand while simultaneously rotating the outer ring of the device
with the other hand (diagram 9).
SPECIAL STORAGE AND/OR HANDLING CONDITIONS
These devices have special storage and/or handling conditions:
yWash hands after handling the devices, as they contain substances that may be irritating to
skin and eyes.
yThe package containing the devices should be resealed after opening to preserve the
eectiveness of the devices’heat and moisture exchange capabilities.
DISPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS
This product is not biodegradable and can be considered contaminated when used. Carefully
dispose of this device per local guidelines.
