Guidelines on the Use of Anaesthesia Machines as ICU Ventilators
Guidance documents released by SASA around COVID-19. Issued 07 April 2020.
The anticipated massive increase in demand for ventilators in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic may result in the need to use anaesthesia workstations/ventilators for the ventilation of critically ill patients.
SASA recognises this need and has engaged with the manufacturers of the commonly deployed anaesthesia workstations, namely Draeger, GEMedhold and Mindray.
They have raised concerns largely in line with those of the SASA COVID-19 working group. These are listed below
1. Off-label use
2. Interface differences
3. Prevention of CO2
4. Audio Alarms and settings
5. Nebulisation and active humidification.
6. Leak
7. Increased Oxygen consumption
These guidelines have been published by South African Society of Anaesthesiologists. EMGuidance confirms that it is not the owner of the information provided, nor does it intend to present it as such.