AANA journal
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A new anesthesia technology, Side Stream Spirometry, now allows clinicians to monitor pressure, volume, flow, compliance, and resistance during routine anesthesia practice. Continuous monitoring with Side Stream Spirometry is a major adjunct to patient safety because numerical and visual references show how change in one respiratory parameter affects the mechanics of the entire breath cycle. To optimize ventilation and ensure adequate oxygenation, it is common practice for clinicians to verify that the proper volume per breath is being delivered to the patient at the lowest possible pressure. ⋯ This sensor location provides actual patient information which is not altered by the volume of gas compressed in the breathing circuit, the absorber system, or in the bellows of the ventilator. This installment of the AANA Journal Course will discuss the technology of Side Stream Spirometry and its application to monitoring pulmonary ventilation. Clinical evidence of ventilatory changes will be graphically demonstrated using the CAPNOMAC ULTIMA, a respiratory gas monitoring system, equipped with Side Stream Spirometry.