Ken Critical Thinking Questions for quiz on 9.15.13

a patient receiving mechanical ventilation has polarographic oxygen analyzer in line with the ventilator circuit. each time the ventilator gives a positive pressure breath, you note the FiO2 increases and then returns to the ordered FiO2. what is the cause of this problem and what actions should be taken?

Continuously analyzing is the cause. positive pressure breath (when the patient exhales you should take the reading) (positive pressure causes a high reading) no action should be taken because this would be normal on a positive/inhalation

How would moisture or condensation buildup on the sensor membrane affect the measured FiO2? What measures can be taken to prevent this?

It would give a lower reading. The use of water traps, the placement of the sensor before the humidifier, avoid continuous measurement if the probe has to be placed after the humidifier, position the probe with the sensor at a 90 degree angle to the tube (that way the moisture won't be collecting)

A galvanic fuel cell analyzer is being use to monitor an oxygen setup for a pediatric patient. Upon calibration to room air, the respiratory care practitioner notes that the analyzer is reading 17% when exposed to room air. What should then be done?

do a 2-point calibration first check it to room temperature and make sure it reads 21% after that happens, then do 2nd step and hook it to a 100 % oxygen tank and make sure the analyzer reads 100% now it's calibrated

What type of analyzing method directly measures the concentration of oxygen? which method directly measures partial pressure?

electrical measures the concentration of oxygen. electrochemical analyzer, polarographic and galvanic

How would decreased barometric pressure of increased altitude affect the reading of an oxygen analyzer? Why?

the reading would be lower because the pressure is lower, relates to Question #1, the electrochemical analyzer. If higher altitude you would get a lower reading, so you would have to re-calibrate it.

Explain why routine oxygen analysis is important in monitoring a home care patient using an oxygen concentrator.

to check the accuracy of the concentrator

Explain why routine oxygen analysis is important in monitoring a newborn on supplemental oxygen.

to ensure the accuracy of the delivered FiO2 so that oxygencan be titrated accurately because of the risk of retinopathy of prematurity ROP

Explain why routine oxygen analysis is important in using an oxygen system that comprises compressed air and oxygen bleed-in.

we analyze to ensure the FiO2 being delivered is accurate and corresponds to the physician's order