CPAP/BiPAP Systems in Nigeria
Available CPAP/BiPAP Systems Models

What Is Cpap/bipap Systems?

A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) or BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) system is a non-invasive medical ventilator used to treat sleep apnea, COPD, and other respiratory conditions. It delivers a constant stream of pressurized air through a mask to keep a patient's airway open during sleep or respiratory distress. Clinicians in ICUs, respiratory therapy departments, and sleep clinics use these systems to improve patient oxygenation, reduce the work of breathing, and prevent life-threatening events, directly impacting patient outcomes and reducing the need for more invasive mechanical ventilation.

Cpap/bipap Systems Price In Nigeria

CPAP/BiPAP system prices in Nigeria range from NGN 350,000 for basic, portable CPAP units to over NGN 2,500,000 for advanced BiPAP S/T models with integrated humidifiers and advanced data tracking. The final price you pay is driven by technical specifications (e.g., CPAP vs. BiPAP S/T), brand reputation (ResMed and Philips Respironics command a premium), included accessories like masks and tubing, and service costs such as installation, user training, and warranty length. Fluctuating foreign exchange rates, international freight charges, and customs clearance fees can add 20-35% to the factory cost. When requesting a quote, ensure it itemises the main unit, all accessories, calibration certificates, payment terms, and specifies who covers freight and customs duties to avoid surprise costs.

• Questions savvy buyers ask:

• Is the price inclusive of a mask, tubing, and filters for the first year?

• What is the warranty period and who services it locally in Nigeria?

• Does the quote include the cost of a suitable pure sine wave UPS?

• Is on-site user training for our clinical staff included in this price?

• Can you confirm the device is not region-locked and will receive software updates in Nigeria?

• What are the lead times from payment to delivery at our facility?

For a detailed, line-item quote tailored to your facility's needs, contact Franance.

Cheapest Cpap/bipap Systems In Nigeria

The cheapest safe CPAP systems in Nigeria start from NGN 350,000 to NGN 600,000 for new, entry-level models from reputable brands like BMC or for professionally refurbished units from top-tier brands. These systems provide the core function of fixed-pressure CPAP therapy but often lack features like auto-titration, advanced data logging, or integrated humidification. Be aware that the lowest price often comes with a limited 6-12 month warranty and may exclude critical costs like shipping, insurance, and a protective UPS, which can add another NGN 100,000 - NGN 150,000 to your total outlay.

• Before accepting the lowest quote:

• Verify the seller has a physical service centre with trained technicians in Nigeria.

• Confirm the unit is new-in-box with a verifiable serial number, not a grey market import.

• Ask for the total landed cost, including customs, local delivery, and insurance.

• Check the cost and availability of replacement masks, filters, and tubing.

• Insist on a minimum one-year warranty that covers parts and labour.

Contact Franance to get a transparent quote on reliable, entry-level systems.

Affordable Cpap/bipap Systems In Nigeria

An affordable CPAP/BiPAP system is a value bundle priced between NGN 700,000 and NGN 1,500,000 that includes the device, a high-quality mask, a 1.5kVA pure sine wave UPS, initial consumables, and on-site user training. This approach focuses on total cost of ownership rather than just the initial unit price. Investing in a bundle with a proper UPS can prevent a NGN 200,000+ repair bill from a power surge within the first 12 months and ensures higher uptime, which is critical for patient care. A bundled deal prevents the operational downtime and hidden costs associated with sourcing accessories and support separately.

• Bundle these for value:

• The CPAP/BiPAP unit (e.g., a ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet or Philips DreamStation Auto CPAP).

• A 1.5kVA pure sine wave UPS.

• Two different types of masks (e.g., nasal and full-face) to ensure patient compliance.

• A one-year supply of replacement filters.

• On-site training for at least two biomedical engineers and four clinical staff.

Get a bundled quote from Franance to maximise value and minimise downtime.

New Cpap/bipap Systems Price Vs Refurbished Cpap/bipap Systems Price

A new, mid-range auto-CPAP system from a brand like Philips or ResMed costs between NGN 800,000 and NGN 1,800,000, while a professionally refurbished unit of the same model can be sourced for NGN 500,000 to NGN 900,000. New systems come with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty, the latest software, and a guaranteed full lifecycle. Refurbished units typically offer a 6-12 month vendor warranty, may run on older software, and have a shorter remaining operational life. The lead time for new units can be 6-8 weeks, whereas refurbished models are often available in-country within 2-3 weeks.

| Feature | New CPAP/BiPAP System | Refurbished CPAP/BiPAP System |

| :--- | :--- | :--- |

| Price | NGN 800k - 1.8M (Mid-range) | NGN 500k - 900k (Mid-range) |

| Warranty | 24 months (Manufacturer) | 6-12 months (Vendor) |

| Lifecycle | Full (5-7 years) | Partial (2-4 years remaining) |

| Software | Latest version, updateable | May be older, not always updateable |

| Lead Time | 4-8 weeks (if not in stock) | 1-3 weeks (often in-country) |

| Condition | Brand new, sealed | Used, sanitised, key parts replaced |

Contact Franance to explore both new and certified refurbished options for your budget.

Request Cpap/bipap Systems Quote In Nigeria (Franance)

Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote on CPAP/BiPAP systems tailored to your clinical needs and budget.

Where To Buy Cpap/bipap Systems In Nigeria (Suppliers)

You can buy CPAP/BiPAP systems from specialised medical equipment suppliers with offices and service centres primarily located in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. To ensure you are dealing with a legitimate company, you must verify their credentials. Start by checking their company registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Then, demand proof of their technical capability, such as certifications for their biomedical engineers from the equipment manufacturer (OEM). A credible supplier will readily provide references from other hospitals they have supplied, proof of OEM partnership, and evidence of goods-in-transit insurance. Franance pre-vets all partner suppliers through a rigorous workflow that includes checking these documents and conducting site visits to their service centres.

• Documentation you must request:

• Certificate of Incorporation from the CAC.

• Proof of authorisation or partnership from the CPAP/BiPAP manufacturer.

• CVs and OEM training certificates for their lead biomedical engineers.

• A list of recent hospital clients you can contact for references.

• NAFDAC device registration certificate for the specific model you are buying.

Let Franance connect you with verified, reliable CPAP/BiPAP suppliers across Nigeria.

Cpap/bipap Systems Suppliers In Nigeria — Checklist

• Corporate: Is the company registered with the CAC?

• Corporate: Do they have a physical office and service workshop you can visit?

• Technical: Are their engineers certified by the OEM (e.g., ResMed, Philips)?

• Technical: Do they have necessary calibration and testing tools in-house?

• SLA: Do they offer a clear Service Level Agreement (SLA) with defined response times?

• SLA: Do they stock common spare parts like power boards, blowers, and sensors locally?

• Documentation: Can they provide a NAFDAC registration number for the device?

• Documentation: Will they provide a certificate of calibration upon installation?

• Commercial: Do they have experience with customs clearance for medical devices?

• Commercial: Can they provide references from at least three other healthcare facilities?

• Commercial: Is their pricing transparent, separating hardware, shipping, and service costs?

• Logistics: Do they have goods-in-transit insurance to cover delivery to your facility?

• Support: Do they offer remote troubleshooting support via phone or video call?

Verified Cpap/bipap Systems Supplier In Nigeria (Franance)

Franance is a verified supplier that provides end-to-end procurement services for CPAP/BiPAP systems across all 36 states of Nigeria. We manage everything from sourcing and FX management to logistics, installation, and after-sales support, ensuring your facility gets clinically appropriate, reliable equipment without the procurement hassle. Our service stack is designed to de-risk the entire process for you.

• Franance service stack:

• Sourcing & Vetting: Access to pre-vetted global and local suppliers.

• Transparent Quoting: Line-item quotes covering all landed costs.

• Logistics Management: Handling of all import, customs, and inland delivery.

• Turnkey Installation: Site readiness assessment, installation, and OEM-standard calibration.

• Training: On-site clinical and technical training for your staff.

• After-Sales Support: Managed warranty and preventative maintenance plans.

• Financing: Flexible payment plans and leasing options to fit your budget.

Best Cpap/bipap Systems In Nigeria

The best CPAP/BiPAP systems for Nigerian facilities are those that offer proven reliability in our power environment, have strong local technical support, and provide clinically relevant features. Top-tier recommendations include the ResMed AirSense 11 and Philips Respironics DreamStation 2, priced from NGN 1,200,000 to NGN 2,500,000+, ideal for tertiary hospitals needing advanced data and therapy modes. For mid-range needs, the ResMed AirSense 10 or BMC G3 series offer excellent value and durability, suitable for private clinics and general hospitals. Entry-level facilities can rely on the robust and simple BMC GII series for basic CPAP therapy.

• How to match tier to workload:

• Entry-Tier (e.g., BMC GII CPAP): Best for small clinics, primary healthcare centres, or NGOs needing basic, fixed-pressure therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

• Mid-Tier (e.g., ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet, Philips DreamStation Auto): Ideal for general hospitals and private clinics managing a mix of OSA patients, requiring auto-titrating pressure and better data for patient management.

• Advanced-Tier (e.g., ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto/ST, Philips DreamStation BiPAP S/T): Essential for tertiary hospitals, ICUs, and specialist centres treating complex patients with central sleep apnea, COPD, or neuromuscular diseases requiring bilevel and timed ventilation support.

Compare Cpap/bipap Systems Models In Nigeria

A comparison of CPAP/BiPAP models shows a clear trade-off between price, features, and clinical application. Entry-level models like the BMC GII are affordable and robust for basic CPAP, while advanced models like the ResMed AirCurve 10 ST offer sophisticated ventilation modes for critically ill patients but come at a premium price and require more stable power infrastructure.

| Tier | Best for | Example Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |

| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |

| Entry | Small clinics, OSA | Fixed Pressure (4-20 cmH2O), Basic Data | 2-4 weeks | Annual filter change | 1kVA UPS |

| Mid | General Hospitals | Auto-adjusting Pressure, Humidifier, Cellular Modem | 4-6 weeks | Filters, tube/mask replacement | 1.5kVA UPS |

| Advanced | ICUs, Tertiary | Bilevel, Timed Backup Rate (S/T), SpO2 Monitoring | 6-10 weeks | Annual calibration, parts | 2kVA UPS, stable line |

Best Cpap/bipap Systems Brand In Nigeria

The best CPAP/BiPAP brands in Nigeria are ResMed, Philips Respironics, and BMC, due to their product reliability, established service networks, and availability of spare parts. ResMed, with models like the AirSense and AirCurve series, is considered the premium choice for its advanced algorithms and user comfort. Philips Respironics' DreamStation series is a strong competitor known for its user-friendly interface and robust performance. BMC is a highly regarded value brand, offering reliable and affordable systems like the G3 series, which are popular with budget-conscious facilities and NGOs.

• Brand evaluation questions:

• Does the brand have an official, authorised service agent in Nigeria?

• How readily available are consumables like filters, masks, and tubing for this brand?

• What is the typical turnaround time for repairs under warranty?

• Does the brand's software and data platform work reliably with Nigerian internet infrastructure?

• Are their devices known to be tolerant of fluctuating power when used with a UPS?

Cpap/bipap Systems Price List In Nigeria (Range Only)

A price list for CPAP/BiPAP systems in Nigeria is based on ranges due to fluctuating import costs. Entry-level fixed-pressure CPAP units range from NGN 350,000 - NGN 700,000. Mid-range Auto-CPAP (APAP) systems are typically NGN 750,000 - NGN 1,500,000. Advanced BiPAP S/T systems for complex respiratory support cost between NGN 1,600,000 and NGN 3,000,000+. When you receive a range-based quote, it means the final price is subject to the prevailing FX rate, freight charges, and customs duties at the time of order confirmation. For example, a 10% depreciation in the Naira against the US Dollar can increase the final landed cost of a NGN 1,000,000 system by NGN 100,000 or more.

• Price Range Tiers:

• Basic CPAP: NGN 350,000 - NGN 700,000

• Auto-CPAP (APAP): NGN 750,000 - NGN 1,500,000

• Basic BiPAP (S): NGN 900,000 - NGN 1,800,000

• Advanced BiPAP (S/T, ASV): NGN 1,600,000 - NGN 3,000,000+

Cpap/bipap Systems Specifications

The 5 most decisive specifications for a CPAP/BiPAP system are its therapy modes, pressure range, data management capabilities, humidification system, and noise level. Therapy modes (CPAP, APAP, BiPAP S, S/T) determine the clinical conditions you can treat; an S/T mode is essential for patients with central apnea or COPD. A wide pressure range (e.g., 4-25 cmH2O) ensures you can manage patients with varying severity. Integrated data management via an SD card or cellular modem is critical for monitoring patient compliance and therapy effectiveness. An integrated heated humidifier improves patient comfort and compliance, a key factor in treatment success. A low noise level (<30 dBA) is vital for patient and partner sleep quality.

• Specs that change outcomes:

• Therapy Modes: The ability to switch between CPAP, Auto-CPAP, and BiPAP S/T allows one device to serve a wider range of patient needs, from simple OSA to complex respiratory failure.

• Pressure Range & Ramp: A range up to 25 or 30 cmH2O and an adjustable ramp feature (allowing pressure to build slowly) are crucial for severe cases and patient comfort.

• Data & Connectivity: Cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring allows clinicians to adjust settings without a patient visit, improving outcomes for rural or mobility-impaired patients.

• Leak Compensation: Advanced algorithms that adjust for mask leaks ensure the patient receives the prescribed therapeutic pressure consistently, even with minor fit issues.

• Humidification & Heated Tubing: An integrated heated humidifier and tube prevents airway dryness and rainout (condensation in the tube), significantly boosting patient compliance.

Cpap/bipap Systems Installation And Calibration In Nigeria

The installation and calibration process for a CPAP/BiPAP system in a clinical setting takes 2-4 hours and typically costs between NGN 50,000 and NGN 150,000, depending on location and complexity. A turnkey process involves a site readiness check (verifying power outlets and space), unboxing and physical setup, connecting the device to a certified pressure manometer to verify its output accuracy (calibration), and conducting comprehensive training for both clinical and biomedical staff on its use, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting. You should only sign off on the installation once you have received all documentation, including a calibration certificate and a user training completion form.

• Do not sign off until you have…

• A signed installation report from the engineer.

• A certificate of calibration traceable to a known standard.

• The user and service manuals (in English).

• A warranty activation document with the start date clearly stated.

• Confirmation that your staff can confidently operate and clean the device.

• The direct contact number for the service engineer for any follow-up questions.

Turnkey Cpap/bipap Systems Installation In Nigeria (Franance)

Let Franance manage your entire turnkey installation, from power assessment to final user sign-off, ensuring your CPAP/BiPAP system is set up to OEM standards from day one.

Cpap/bipap Systems Delivery And Logistics In Nigeria

Delivery of a CPAP/BiPAP system in Nigeria takes 1-2 weeks if in-country stock is available, or 6-10 weeks for international factory orders. The cost, which can range from NGN 75,000 to NGN 300,000+, includes international air freight, insurance, customs duties, and final inland delivery to your facility. The process involves securing import permits if required, navigating customs clearance at the port of entry (typically Lagos or Abuja), and managing secure, insured transport to your hospital. Delays are common, so working with an experienced logistics partner who understands the specific documentation required for medical devices is critical to avoid having your equipment stuck at the port.

• Logistics risk controls:

• Confirm the supplier has a valid NAFDAC permit for the specific device model.

• Ensure the shipment is covered by comprehensive goods-in-transit insurance until it reaches your facility.

• Use a freight forwarder with proven experience in clearing medical equipment in Nigeria.

• Request tracking information and regular updates from your supplier.

• Budget for a potential 10-15% contingency for unforeseen customs or clearing charges.

Cpap/bipap Systems Warranty And Service In Nigeria

A standard warranty for a new CPAP/BiPAP system in Nigeria is 1-2 years, covering parts and labour for manufacturing defects. Service options range from basic return-to-depot repairs to comprehensive on-site Service Level Agreements (SLAs) costing 10-15% of the unit's price annually. It is crucial to clarify if the warranty is from the OEM or the local vendor, as vendor warranties may have limitations. A strong SLA should guarantee a 48-hour response time for issues, include annual preventative maintenance and calibration, and detail the availability of loaner units to prevent clinical downtime during repairs.

• Warranty terms to insist on:

• A minimum 12-month warranty covering all parts and labour.

• Clearly defined service response times (e.g., engineer on-site within 72 hours for major faults).

• Availability of a loaner unit if a repair is expected to take longer than 5 business days.

• Inclusion of at least one preventative maintenance visit per year.

• Local availability of critical spare parts like blowers, sensors, and power supplies.

Refurbished Cpap/bipap Systems In Nigeria

Refurbished CPAP/BiPAP systems in Nigeria are available for NGN 500,000 to NGN 900,000 for high-end models that would cost over NGN 1,500,000 new. These units are typically sourced from Europe or the US and undergo a refurbishment process that includes sanitisation, replacement of high-wear parts (like the motor/blower), software updates, and full calibration. Reputable sellers provide different grades of refurbishment and should always supply an inspection report detailing the work done, the unit's total run hours, and a minimum 6-month warranty.

• Refurb proof points:

• A detailed service report outlining all parts that were replaced.

• The device's total operational hours (blower hours) – lower is better.

• A certificate of calibration performed after refurbishment.

• A minimum 6-month, preferably 12-month, local warranty.

• Photos of the actual unit before purchase.

Original Vs Fake Cpap/bipap Systems - How To Verify In Nigeria

To verify an original CPAP/BiPAP system, check the serial number on the device against the manufacturer's online database or by calling their official support line. Red flags for fake or grey-market units include unusually low prices, missing or poorly printed packaging, user manuals with grammatical errors, and the seller's inability to provide a NAFDAC registration number or an official letter of authorisation from the manufacturer. Always purchase from a reputable supplier who can demonstrate a clear, direct relationship with the OEM.

• Spot counterfeit risk:

• The price is more than 30% lower than quotes from other reputable suppliers.

• The packaging is unsealed, damaged, or looks unprofessional.

• The serial number on the device does not match the number on the box.

• The seller operates only through social media or a generic email address with no physical office.

• The seller is hesitant to provide references or proof of past sales to other hospitals.

Cpap/bipap Systems Accessories & Consumables In Nigeria

The essential accessories for a CPAP/BiPAP system are the patient mask (nasal, full-face, or nasal pillows), tubing, and filters, with ongoing costs ranging from NGN 60,000 to NGN 150,000 per patient annually. Other critical accessories include a DC power converter for mobile use and a pulse oximetry (SpO2) module for advanced monitoring. To ensure continuous operation and reduce future procurement hassles, it is highly recommended to bundle a one-year supply of consumables (filters, multiple mask types/sizes, and a spare tube) with the initial purchase of the main unit.

• Bundle with the main unit:

• Masks: At least one nasal and one full-face mask to accommodate different patient preferences and needs.

• Filters: A 12-month supply of both disposable and reusable filters.

• Tubing: One standard tube and one heated tube (if compatible).

• Humidifier Chamber: A spare water chamber.

• Power: A suitable pure sine wave UPS.

Cpap/bipap Systems Power Requirements In Nigeria

CPAP/BiPAP systems require a stable 220-240V, 50Hz AC power supply and are extremely sensitive to the voltage fluctuations common in Nigeria. The minimum power protection required is a 1kVA to 1.5kVA pure sine wave UPS to shield the device's sensitive electronics from surges and provide at least 30-60 minutes of runtime during a power outage. The device must be connected to a properly earthed socket, and for facilities with unreliable grid power, a dedicated power line from a generator or a high-quality voltage stabilizer is essential to prevent costly damage to the main circuit board.

• Power readiness checks:

• Is the designated outlet properly earthed?

• Do you have a pure sine wave UPS with a capacity of at least 1000VA?

• Is the UPS battery in good condition and tested regularly?

• For ICU use, is the outlet connected to the hospital's essential power line (IPS/generator)?

• Have you factored in the power draw of the heated humidifier (up to 90W)?

Cpap/bipap Systems Compliance In Nigeria

To be compliant, any CPAP/BiPAP system procured by a healthcare facility in Nigeria must be registered with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The supplier must be able to provide the NAFDAC registration number for the specific model. Furthermore, the device should meet Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) quality requirements. For clinical use, all performance and calibration records must be documented and traceable, forming part of your facility's quality assurance and accreditation dossier for bodies like the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council (NMDC).

• Compliance dossier items:

• Copy of the supplier's NAFDAC device registration certificate.

• Certificate of Conformity (CE, ISO) from the manufacturer.

• Installation report and initial certificate of calibration.

• User and service manuals in English.

• A logbook for recording periodic maintenance and calibration checks.

Financing & Leasing For Cpap/bipap Systems In Nigeria

Financing options for CPAP/BiPAP systems in Nigeria include bank loans, asset leasing, and specialised financing from providers like Franance. Banks typically offer medical equipment loans with interest rates of 20-30% per annum, requiring significant collateral and a 4-8 week approval process. Leasing is an alternative where you pay a monthly fee over 2-3 years, with the leasing company retaining ownership. Franance offers flexible financing with faster approval times (1-2 weeks) and payment plans tailored to your facility's cash flow, often requiring less collateral than traditional banks.

• Finance questions to ask lenders:

• What is the effective annual interest rate, including all fees?

• What are the collateral requirements?

• What is the total amount I will have paid by the end of the term?

• Is there a penalty for early repayment?

• Does the financing cover the full landed cost, including installation and training?

Cpap/bipap Systems Total Cost Of Ownership (Tco) In Nigeria

The total cost of ownership (TCO) for a mid-range NGN 1,200,000 CPAP/BiPAP system in Nigeria over three years is approximately NGN 2,100,000. This includes the initial purchase price, a NGN 150,000 UPS, NGN 450,000 in consumables (masks, filters, tubes for multiple patients), and NGN 300,000 for a two-year extended service contract after the first year's warranty expires. Factoring in TCO prevents the common mistake of buying a cheap unit only to face high, unpredictable running costs and significant clinical downtime due to lack of support or consumables.

• TCO levers to manage:

• Initial Purchase: Bundle a UPS and a 1-year consumable pack for an upfront discount.

• Consumables: Standardise on one or two models to buy consumables in bulk.

• Service: Negotiate a multi-year service contract at the point of purchase for a lower annual rate.

• Power: Invest in proper power protection to avoid a NGN 200,000+ board replacement.

• Training: Train multiple staff members to reduce dependency on a single person and minimise user error.

Cpap/bipap Systems For Hospitals, Clinics & Ngos In Nigeria

Tertiary/teaching Hospital Cpap/bipap Systems

Tertiary and teaching hospitals require advanced, versatile BiPAP S/T systems like the ResMed AirCurve 10 ST or Philips Respironics Trilogy series. These units, priced from NGN 1,800,000 upwards, are critical for ICUs and respiratory wards to manage complex patients with COPD, neuromuscular disease, or central sleep apnea. Key specifications must include a backup respiratory rate, adjustable trigger and cycle sensitivity, and the ability to monitor tidal volume and SpO2 for comprehensive patient management.

Private Clinic/diagnostics Cpap/bipap Systems

Private clinics and diagnostic centres focused on sleep apnea should invest in reliable Auto-CPAP (APAP) models like the ResMed AirSense 10/11 AutoSet or the Philips DreamStation Auto CPAP. Priced between NGN 800,000 and NGN 1,600,000, these devices automatically adjust pressure levels throughout the night, providing superior therapy and detailed data (like AHI and leak rates) essential for diagnosis, titration, and patient follow-up.

Ngo/mobile Cpap/bipap Systems

NGOs and mobile health programs need robust, portable, and easy-to-use CPAP systems like the BMC M1 Mini or ResMed AirMini. These compact units are durable, can be powered by DC battery packs for use in off-grid locations, and have simpler interfaces for rapid deployment and training of community health workers. Affordability and reliability are key, with prices for suitable models ranging from NGN 400,000 to NGN 900,000.

Emergency/theatre/icu Cpap/bipap Systems

For emergency, theatre, and ICU environments, a high-performance non-invasive ventilator (NIV) with BiPAP S/T capabilities is essential. Models like the ResMed AirCurve 10 ST-A or dedicated NIVs are required. These systems must have internal batteries for transport, high-pressure oxygen inlet ports, and comprehensive alarm systems. They provide a crucial bridge for patients in respiratory distress, potentially preventing the need for intubation and mechanical ventilation.