How to use Disposable Anesthesia Breathing Circuit- Smoothbore correctly?

Using a Disposable Anesthesia Breathing Circuit with a Smoothbore correctly is crucial to ensure the safe and effective delivery of anesthesia to patients during surgery. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use it properly:

1. Check the packaging: Before use, inspect the packaging of the disposable anesthesia breathing circuit. Ensure that it is sealed and not damaged. If the packaging is compromised, do not use the circuit, and get a new, properly sealed one.

2. Preparation before use:

   • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer to maintain proper hygiene.
   • Gather all the necessary equipment, including the anesthesia machine, breathing circuit, and appropriate patient airway devices.

3. Attach the breathing circuit to the anesthesia machine:

   • Identify the inspiratory (fresh gas flow) and expiratory limbs of the breathing circuit. The inspiratory limb connects to the gas outlet of the anesthesia machine, while the expiratory limb is connected to the patient's airway device (e.g., endotracheal tube or face mask).
   • Ensure that the connections are secure, and any adjustable components (like the adjustable pressure-limiting valve) are appropriately set.

4. Perform a leak test:

   • Before attaching the patient's airway device, perform a leak test on the entire breathing circuit. Close the adjustable pressure-limiting valve, occlude the Y-piece (where the inspiratory and expiratory limbs meet), and check for any noticeable leaks or pressure drops. If there are any leaks, fix them before proceeding.

5. Attach the patient airway device:

   • Depending on the patient's condition and the type of surgery, connect the appropriate airway device (e.g., endotracheal tube, laryngeal mask airway, or face mask) to the expiratory limb of the breathing circuit.

6. Confirm proper functioning:

   • Ensure that the adjustable pressure-limiting valve is functioning correctly and is set to the appropriate pressure limits according to the patient's needs and the type of surgery.
   • Verify that the flowmeter settings on the anesthesia machine are appropriate for the patient's size and anesthesia requirements.

7. Monitoring and maintenance:

   • Throughout the anesthesia administration, continuously monitor the patient's vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2).
   • Keep the breathing circuit clear of any kinks or obstructions, and make sure it remains securely connected to the patient and the anesthesia machine throughout the procedure.

8. Disposal:

   • After use, dispose of the entire breathing circuit as per the healthcare facility's guidelines for medical waste disposal. Do not attempt to reuse or re-sterilize a disposable breathing circuit, as it can compromise patient safety.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and your institution's protocols when using a Disposable Anesthesia Breathing Circuit with a Smoothbore to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient during anesthesia administration.