Is exhalation port in circuit necessary?

oneantonee · Post by **oneantonee** » Thu Apr 20, 2006 1:22 am

I apologize if this is a newbie question that has already covered, but I did a search for it and couldn't find anything helpful.

I was reading the Clinical Manual for my machine and it said to, "Verify that an exhalation port is present to exhaust CO2 from the circuit." I also recall seeing a warning about this in one of the videos that I watched online. In the video, it showed the exhalation port as a swivel connector between the mask and tubing. (If I recall correctly.)

My mask is the Ultra Mirage FFM and I didn't see one of these "ports" in the circuit. However, perhaps it is integrated into the mask. Is this the case, or is this port not even necessary?

Thanks for your help!

Antonio

TerryB · Post by **TerryB** » Thu Apr 20, 2006 5:30 am

I'm sorry to say that I am ignorant of the particulars of the mask you have. Both of my masks have the exhaust built in to the connections. At any rate, you should find that under pressure, there is a considerable amount of air flowing out of the equipment somewhere between the end of the hose and the part that touches your skin. This ensures that there is always a movement of fresh air to help flush the CO2 out. This is necessary to prevent you rebreathing the CO2 which could eventually cause you to pass out and worse.

TerryB

Wulfman- · Post by **Wulfman-** » Thu Apr 20, 2006 5:44 am

oneantonee,

The exhaust port on the UMFF is at the top of the mask just below the forehead adjustment / brace piece. It's a little rubbery insert with holes in it.
One secret to this full face mask is to not wear it too tight.

Best wishes,

Den

NightHawkeye · Post by **NightHawkeye** » Thu Apr 20, 2006 7:27 am

Antonio, the UMFF also has an anti-asphyxiation valve which is on the swivel connector you referred to, although it's not necessarily obvious when you look at it. The anti-asphyxiation valve is the circular silicone piece inside the swivel connector. When you put the mask on and turn the machine on, you should briefly be able feel air rushing out at the swivel until the valve snaps shuts.

With the machine OFF, you should also be able to feel your breath coming out at this valve.

Regards,
Bill