Accessories
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Attaching a humidifier
A humidifier or HME is recommended for use with the Astral device.
WARNING
• For invasive ventilation, since the patient's upper respiratory system is bypassed by an artificial
airway device (for example endotracheal or tracheostomy tube) humidification of the inspired
gas is required to prevent lung injury.
• Always place the humidifier on a level surface below the level of the device and the patient to
prevent the mask and tubing filling with water.
• Only use humidifiers that comply with the relevant safety standards, including ISO 8185 and
set up the humidifier according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Monitor the air tubing for water condensation and / or spillage from the humidifier. Use
appropriate precautions to prevent water in the circuit transferring to the patient (eg, a water
trap).
For non-invasive ventilation, for patient experiencing dryness of the nose, throat or mouth, humidification
of the inspired gas will prevent subsequent irritation and discomfort.
CAUTION
Make sure that the water tub is empty and thoroughly dried before transporting the humidifier.
To attach a humidifier to a patient circuit:
1. Connect a length of air tubing to the inspiratory port on the device.
2. Connect the other end of the air tubing to the inlet port on the humidifier.
3. Connect the patient circuit to the outlet port on the humidifier.
The image below shows proper use of a humidifier in combination with a double limb circuit.
When using heated humidification with a double limb circuit, condensation may form in the expiratory
flow sensor if the air is cooled to below its dew point. Condensation may also form in the patient circuit
and is most likely to form at high humidity settings and low ambient temperatures.
Condensation forming in the expiratory flow sensor may cause a loss of expiratory flow measurement
and compromised therapy (ie, auto-triggering, increased PEEP and activation of the leak alarm.
To prevent condensation at the Expiratory flow sensor, always follow the humidifier manufacturer's
instructions on how to prevent condensation and regularly check the patient circuit for condensation.
To ensure accurate therapy, Astral's Learn Circuit function should be performed prior to filling the water
tub.
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