Heliox

Question 1

What is the purpose of heliox?

Answer 1

Reduce turbulent flow in obstructed airways
Decrease respiratory muscle use
Decrease dyspnea

Question 2

What are indications for heliox?

Answer 2

asthma/COPD exacerbations
Increased WOB
Foreign body aspiration
Stridor
Croup

Question 2

What is a benefit of helium?

Answer 2

It is inert and will not react with human tissue or with pharmaceutical agents

Question 3

How is heliox administered?

Answer 3

Two flow meters, one connected to oxygen and another to heliox
Connected to NRB

Question 4

Is accurate flow of heliox necessary?

Answer 4

No, as long as flow is sufficient to keep the reservoir bag from deflating on inspiration

Question 5

What are the concentrations of heliox?

Answer 5

80 Helium - 20 oxygen
70 Helium - 30 oxygen
60 Helium - 40 oxygen

Question 6

What is the equation for calculating actual heliox flow?

Answer 6

Heliox factor x liter flow = actual heliox flow

Question 7

What are the heliox factors for the heliox concentrations?

Answer 7

80 Helium - 20 oxygen = 1.8
70 Helium - 30 oxygen = 1.6
60 Helium - 40 oxygen = 1.4

Question 8

What must be done when delivering heliox through a ventilator?

Answer 8

Expiratory flow sensing devices must be disconnected or disabled

Question 9

What does heliums low density promote?

Answer 9

less turbulent gas flow

Question 9

What are the reasons to administer heliox to a patient experiencing an asthma exacerbation?

Answer 9

Reduces turbulent flow
Decreases respiratory muscle load
Decreases dyspnea