Question

Name off 5 reason why we would see a high pressure alarm

How would fix each problem

why do we need the high pressure alarm

Answer 1

The following are the reasons why we would see a high pressure alarm and how to fix the issues:

1. Kinks in the tracheotomy tube: The kinks in the tracheotomy tube can block the airway and set off high pressure alarm. To fix it, the kinks are manually removed or the component/ tubing is change and replaced.

2. Water in the ventilator circuit: Water accumulation is one of the elements that is secreted and transported with the mechanical breathing and can create a high pressure. Therefore, to fix it we can drain the water and dry out the tubing before reattaching

3. Mucous plug in Endotracheal tube: There are gradual accumulation of secretions and a mucus plug is formed within the ETT lumen. When mucus plug becomes large, it obstructs most of the lumen tube thus showing airway obstruction and high pressure alarm is seen.

4. Bronchospasm: The sudden constriction movement of the muscles in the walls of the bronchioles can lead to exhalation of air leading to development of a high pressure in the airway leading to high pressure alarm to be set off. TO fix it we can calm the patient and if required consult the physician for nay medical intervention as required

5. Coughing, gagging with ventilator breath: Any form of Coughing, gagging with ventilator breath can obstruct and lead to higher pressure being exerted on the breathing pattern. To fix it the patient can be counselled or given medical treatment and advised to let the breathing be natural to avoid false alarms.

Why do we need the high pressure alarm?

High pressure alarms are required to detect when the pressure in the circuit has increased as it helps to protect lungs from high pressure being delivered, leading to breathing related complications and adverse events.