Determining the Benefits of Improving Communication in BPAP/CPAP Users

Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is a crucial tool used to treat respiratory distress and failure, especially when patients have acute worsening (also called exacerbations) of emphysema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study will randomize patients who use Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) to a control (non-functioning) and intervention (functioning) device to determine how well speech can be understood while wearing the device. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a non-invasive communication aid for BPAP/CPAP masks. This study also looks to determine the potential impact of the device on patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the individuals that interact with the device.