ABSTRACT
It is clear that these recommendations cannot be applied retrospectively, so it is essential to be clear on the performance of the anaesthesia machine to be used, and to check it thoroughly. The method of checking a ‘traditional’ machine is described in Chapter 12. The more complex modern machines with integrated monitoring cannot always be checked using these guidelines; in these circumstances the manufacturer’s handbook should be followed. Whatever checking system is used, before a patient is connected the anaesthetist must be absolutely certain that when the O2 alone is switched on, 100% pressurized O2 is delivered to the common gas outlet, and that a reserve O2 cylinder is available . A typical basic machine without integrated monitoring is shown in Figure 8.28 and in schematic block diagram form in Figure 8.29. Specific features of importance are described below.
