15 Monitoring Airway Flow, Volume and Pressure
257
3
Install the flow sensor or the combined CO
2
/Flow sensor at the proximal end of the breathing
circuit between the elbow and the ventilator Y-piece. Make sure that the spirometry sensor is in a
horizontal position with its tubing pointing upwards. The correct position is also indicated by an
arrow on some of the sensors. (Graphic shows combined CO
2
/Flow Sensors).
1. Pediatric/adult sensor
2. Pediatric sensor
3. Infant/Neonatal sensor
WARNING
To prevent stress on the endotracheal tube, support the sensor and airway adapter.
Position sensor cables and tubing carefully to avoid entanglement or potential strangulation. Do not
apply excessive tension to any cable or tubing.
Replace the sensor, if excessive moisture or secretions are observed in the tubing and cannot be
removed by a purge cycle.
Reuse poses a patient hazard. Do not disassemble, clean, disinfect or sterilize the sensor.
A system leak may significantly affect readings of flow, volume, pressure and other respiratory
mechanics parameters.
Do not leave the sensor in the patient circuit when not connected to the monitor.
NOTE
• Do NOT place the airway adapter between the endotracheal tube and the elbow (pediatric/adult
circuit), as this may allow patient secretions to block adapter windows.
• The striped tubing of the flow sensor should always be proximal to the patient.
• Position the airway adapter with the spirometry tubing pointing upwards.
• To prevent "rain-out" and moisture from draining into the airway adapter, do NOT place the
airway adapter in a gravity dependent position.
• Periodically check the flow sensor and tubing for excessive moisture or secretion build up.
Perform a purge cycle if droplets are visible within the sensor or tubing. Repeat if necessary. If
purging does not remove the droplets, replace the sensor.
• For routine performance of airway care, separate the system between the endotracheal tube and
the airway adapter (neonatal circuit), or between the endotracheal tube and elbow (pediatric/adult
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