Parameter Monitoring (Waveforms) Operations
5 - 22 046-003777-00 A5/A3™ Operating Instructions
5.11 Parameter Monitoring (Waveforms)
The system displays waveforms in the waveforms / spirometry area. The waveforms are separated
into four groups: pressure waveform, flow waveform, volume waveform and gas waveform (available
with the AG module).
5.11.1 Pressure Waveform
The Pressure vs. Time waveform is displayed in the Waveform Area.
FIGURE 5-21 Example Simulated Pressure vs. Time Waveform
Pressure vs. Time
The Y-axis of the Pressure vs. Time waveform is labeled Paw (which represents Airway Pressure).
The unit of measure is cmH
2
O, hPa, or mbar. The Y-axis can automatically adjust the
scalesThough the X-axis is not labeled, it represents a time scale of 0 to 15 seconds.
NOTE: The purple in the waveform means it is a triggered breath.
5.11.1.1 Auto-zeroing the Pressure Sensors
The A5/A3 auto-zeros the pressure sensors at regular intervals to compensate for changes in
temperature and/or barometric pressure that could affect both pressure and flow measurements.
This may affect the waveforms on the screen, but does not affect the volume/pressure delivered
to the patient.
The auto-zeroing intervals are: startup, 5 mins, 15 mins, 30 mins, 60 mins, and every 120 mins
thereafter.
NOTE: The A5/A3 will display the message “Auto-zeroing in process” during
the auto-zeroing intervals.
5.11.2 Flow Waveform
The Flow vs. Time waveform is displayed in the Waveform Area.
FIGURE 5-22 Example Simulated Flow vs. Time Waveform