![]() ![]() a kinked tube or obstructed outlet) then the flowmeter will still function accurately (i.e. Back pressure compensated – the float is between the valve and the oxygen source, so if pressure is applied distal to the tube (e.g. Thorpe tube (‘rotameter’) – variable orifice comes in either back pressure compensated or uncompensated type.There are three common types of gas flowmeter: A humidifier may also be connected directly to the flowmeter as discussed in the ‘humidification systems’ section below.įlowmeters help not only control the rate of oxygen flow to a patient but they also measure it – providing feedback on consumption to the clinician. The output connector is most often a standard threaded cylindrical connector which accepts a barbed, tapered adapter discussed in the next section. The input connector of the flowmeter can be one of multiple types, though commonly is a diameter index safety system (DISS) connector (other types are discussed in high pressure connector section below). Flow and pressure vary by brand/model though most commonly are in the 0-10 LPM range.įlowmeters (which are not already built into the cylinder or oxygen concentrator) have an input connector and an output connector. Most portable bedside oxygen concentrators have a built-in flow meter to adjust flow to the patients. By the time oxygen leaves the flowmeter, it is stepped down to lower pressure, and thus we are including this in the low pressure section (more on regulators later).įlowmeters may also be built into low pressure sources like an oxygen concentrator (so there may be no need to procure a separate flowmeter). This means a Thorpe flowmeter can be connected directly to the outlet from a regulator (~55 psi) from a cylinder, or the flowmeter may be connected to a terminal wall unit of a piped system (up to 55 psi). A Thorpe flowmeter must be connected to 3.45 bar (50 psi) oxygen pressure to function properly. adult high flow nasal cannula system requires 60LPM).įlowmeters may be connected in different ways to the oxygen source. neonates may require very precise control < 1LPM) and the delivery devices used (e.g. It is important to select the flowmeter range based on the patient population (e.g. Flowmeters help not only control the rate of oxygen flow to a patient but they also measure it – providing feedback on consumption to the clinician.įlowmeters come in many different preset flow delivery ranges (0-200mL, 0-1 LPM, 0-5 LPM, 0-15 LPM, 0-25 LPM, 0-80 LPM and more). The most common type of low pressure oxygen connector is the outlet from a Thorpe tube (‘rotatmeter’) flowmeter (for more info on other types of flowmeters in use the slider at the top left to see a more ‘advanced’ version of this article). There are multiple agencies dedicated to medical gases includingEIGA (Europe) AIGA (Singapore) ANZIGA (Australia/New Zealand) CGA (United States of America) JIMGA (Japan) and SACGA (South Africa).Īn overview of oxygen delivery devices and oxygen sources can be found elsewhere in the O2 Encyclopedia. Check to see what regulatory bodies are followed in your country. In most countries, parts must comply with national regulatory body standards. Improper use or ‘DIY’ approaches can be dangerous. ![]() We will break down the discussion into:Īlways consult the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations prior to connecting any oxygen equipment. This article will review the most common types of connectors used for connecting oxygen supplies to oxygen delivery devices. Unfortunately there is no universal standard for oxygen connectors. Are you finding it difficult to figure out what type of oxygen connector you have or need? You are not alone. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |