The Anaesthetic machine

Question 1

Anaesthetic workstation

Answer 1

a system used during anaesthesia integrating several features including delivery of gases, ventilation and patient monitoring.

Question 2

Breathing circuit

Answer 2

a medical device used to deliver oxygen, remove carbon dioxide, and deliver inhalational anaesthetic agents to the patient

Question 3

Ventilator

Answer 3

a sophisticated machine which moves breathable gases and anaesthetic agents into and out of the lungs, providing advanced ventilatory support during anaesthesia.

Question 4

Four essential functions of the machine

Answer 4

1. provides oxygen
2. accurately mixes anaesthetic gases
3. enables pt ventilation
4. minimises anaesthesia related risk to pt and staff

Question 5

Flowmeters

Answer 5

Measure the flow rate of a gas passing through them.
- flow increases when the knob is turned clockwise

Question 6

Check valves (common gas outlet)

Answer 6

connects to the anaesthetic breathing circuit to deliver the combined product of gases and anaesthetic agent to the patient

Question 7

02 flush valve

Answer 7

used when more oxygen is to be added to the rebreathing bag to check the anaesthetic machine during the preoperative check and during emergencies.
- sometimes used in the induction stage to pre oxygenate the patient.

Question 8

Scavenger system

Answer 8

Involves the collection of effluent gases from anaesthetic systems.

Question 9

Anaesthetic machine - level 1 check

Answer 9

Check of all systems before being placed into use

Question 10

Anaesthetic machine - level 2 check

Answer 10

performed at the start of each anaesthetic list
- a nurse is involved here

Question 11

Anaesthetic machine - level 3 check

Answer 11

performed prior to commencing anaesthesia for each patient
- a nurse is involved here.