Describe the features of an ideal disconnect alarm
Disconnect alarm is a low pressure monitoring device attached to the inspiratory limb that alarms if the pressure fails to exceed a minimum pressure within a fixed time (15 secs)
Features
Sensitive
Able to exclude false negatives
Can detect a disconnection at any point within the circuit
Back pressure generated by HME
High insp flow rates
Condensation in the pressure sensing tube
Transmitted negative pressure from scavenging system
Specific
Rapid response
Cheap
Automatically enabled
Can be used during SV or PPV
Distinguishable audible and visual alarms
Safe
No infection transmission risk
No electrocution risk
No interference by diathermy
Independent isolated power supply with battery backup