Anaesthetic Gas Monitoring and Ventilation Measurements in Hospitals
This is an extract of the article "Anaesthetic Gas Monitoring in Operating Theatres". The complete article can be ordered here.
 | Order brochure | 'Anaesthetic Gas - (Supplier Zone)' |
Abstract
Occupational exposure to inhalation of anaesthetic gases should be minimised as it may lead to adverse health effects for the personnel exposed. Many countries pay special attention to workers safety in operating theatres which is leading to increased awareness of recommended exposure levels and measuring methods.
One commonly used method of establishing concentration levels in operating theatres is the sampling method followed by analysis in a Mass Spectrometer. However, as both the flow pattern and concentration will vary over time this will introduce measurement errors and the results may not reflect the real situation.
This article will describe real time monitoring using Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (PAS) as an affordable and time saving alternative principle of measurement with minimum maintenance and high measurement quality.
Conclusion
Studies have shown that taking instantaneous samples can lead to false conclusions with respect to personnel exposure as the distribution of anaesthetic gases is non uniform.
Furthermore, significant variations have been found in the course of the use of an operating theatre. In contrast, using a direct reading instrument in connection with a multi-point sampler will give a true picture of the distribution of the gases including instantaneous and averaged levels of each measured gas.
The technique used is Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (PAS) offers a much greater sensitivity than conventional spectroscopic techniques. All spectroscopic methods yield quantitative and qualitative information by measuring the amount of light a substance absorbs.
PAS measures this in a more sensitive way resulting in lower detection limits. Another advantage is a very linear response giving a wide dynamic range - typically four to five orders of magnitude (e.g. from 1 ppm to 10,000 or 100,000 ppm).
This allows the same instrument to be used for monitoring both the trace of pollutants, which are generally found in the ambient air, and the high concentrations, which are found at the source.
The photoacoustic detection principle is ideal for anaesthetic gases i.e. N2O, Halothane, Isoflurane, Sevoflurane and Enflurane as they have a well defined infrared absorption area with a minimum interference from water. However it is recommended that all measurements are compensated for the water content in the air.
This product has not been cleared by USFDA