Breathing systems Flashcards
What are the 2 breathing systems?
Re-breathing: Circle/Y-piece, universal “F” Non-rebreathing: Mapleson(s), Bain
What are the 2 types of re-breathing systems? What are the components?
- Circle/Y-piece or universal F Components:
- Fresh gas and O2 flush
- unidiretional valves (1 inspiratory, one expiratory)
- breathing hoses (circle or universal F)
- CO2 absorber (i.e. soda lime)
- APL valve (aka pop-off), reservoir bag
T/F: The re-breathing system has a 2-way gas flow.
FALSE–it is a one-way (circular) gas flow
What does the CO2 absorber do in the re-breathing system?
Prevents rebreathing of excessive CO2
What are the advantages of the re-breathing system?
Lower fresh gas flow rate: saves $$$, decreases pollution, patient breaths warm, humidified gases
What are the disadvantages of the re-breathing system?
More components–>more potential for leaks Increased resistance for smaller patients (
Oxygen flush valve
Bypasses vaporizer: dilutes gases in breathing system and reservoir bag Delivers O2 directly to the breathing system: 35-75 L/min of 100% oxygen
When should you avoid using the oxygen flush valve?
Avoid activation with patient attached to system; NEVER NEVER NEVER use with non-rebreathing system
What must you check when changing breathing systems?
Connection of the fresh gas inlet
What is the adjustable pressure-limiting (APL) valve?
Aka pop-off valve Limits pressure buildup in breathing system
When is the APL valve closed?
OPEN ALWAYS unless: pre-use machine check (must OPEN when done); Must close to administer positive pressure ventilation (manual or controlled)
What happens when the APL valve is closed?
Closed APL valve–>increased pressure in breathing system–>cardiopulmonary injury–>DEATH
What is the breathing system pressure gauge?
Measures pressure in the breathing system; SHOULD BE ZERO
When will the breathing system pressure gauge NOT measure zero?
Performing leak checks (pre-use check) Providing positive pressure ventilation (IPPV)
Carbon dioxide absorber
Soda lime most commonly used Absorber assembly has canister to hold soda lime, 2 ports for connecting breathing tubes, fresh gas inlet, +/- unidirectional valve mount and bag mount
What is soda lime?
Calcium hydroxide with small amount of sodium hydroxide and color indicator
Indicator = ethyl violet (fresh = white; exhausted = purple)
What happens to soda lime when active?
Heat reaction and color change
When filling soda lime…
Do not pack tightly, avoid dust of broken particles Check gaskets and seals as a source of leaks (esp. if dust particles present)
What are the signs of soda lime exhaustion
- Increase end tidal CO2
- If at a light enough plane of general anesthesia: increased ventilation, increase in HR and BP initially (then decrease)
- Rebreathing (seen on ETCO2)
- Respiratory acidosis
- Red mucous membranes (carbon monoxide production and inhalation)
What are the functions of a reservoir bag?
Observe ventilation, inspiratory reserve, administer manual positive pressure ventilation