What is the most reliable indicator that the gas delivered by a ...

[fbq8i]

What is the most reliable indicator that the gas delivered by a servo-controlled heated-wire hu-midifier system is fully saturated at the airway?
 
  a. Observing no visible condensate anywhere in the delivery tubing
  b. Confirming an airway temperature be-tween 32 and 35 C
  c. Observing a few drops of condensate at or near the patient's airway
  d. Observing condensate over the full length of the delivery tubing

Question 2

Which of the following are true when heated-wire circuits are used with heated humidifiers ex-cept:
 
  a. the humidifier operates at a higher tem-perature.
  b. there is less condensate and a reduced need for drainage.
  c. cost savings (less water and staff time) are realized.
  d. there is less infection risk for both patient and caregivers.

[zenzy]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
To ensure that the inspired gas is being properly conditioned, clinicians should always adjust the temperature differential to the point that a few drops of condensation form near the patient wye. Lacking direct measurement of humidity, observation of this minimal condensate is the most reliable indicator that the gas is fully saturated at the specified temperature.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
When heated-wire circuits are used, the humidifier heats gas to a lower temperature (32 to 40 C) than it does with conventional circuits (45 to 50 C). The reduction in condensate in the tub-ing results in less water use, reduced need for drainage, and less infection risk for both patient and health care workers.

[fbq8i]

Thank you

[zenzy]

Happy to help you