If you have to undergo an invasive operation or even visit a dentist, you will find yourself inhaling the right mix of gases. It is to provide your body with an escape from pain during the procedure and prevent any reactions that may interfere with the required performances of the various members of the medical community. This is part of an anesthesia system operated by a qualified and experienced medical specialist – an anesthesiologist.
Anesthesia Systems
This system consists of various components – devices and instruments, all designed to provide the right dosage of gases to anesthetize the patient. The equipment includes, but is not restricted to the following:
- Flowmeters
- Vaporizers
- Sources of compressed gases
A ventilator, a suction unit and a patient monitoring device are supporting tools for the administration of anesthesia.
Such systems fall, roughly, into one of two basic categories. These are:
- Stationary: As the name indicates, this is non-movable. It is usually a component of a workstation. These are most commonly found in hospitals and clinics
- Portable: These movable machines are complete systems. As entities unto themselves, they are made to move around in the field and in hospitals and clinics. They offer an advantage where time, space and need are of the essence
In turn, each category consists of specific types. The most common type of stationary anesthesia system is the continuous-flow. It provides a measured and ongoing supply of each of the required gases e.g. oxygen, nitrous oxide, heliox, combined with an “anesthetic vapor concentration” such as isoflurane. It delivers it safely to the patient at the necessary speed, at a known flow rate and the right pressure.
Anesthesia System
The anesthesia system is an essential component of any hospital setting. Its operator, the anesthesiologist, is responsible for ensuring the system functions properly. Because of the combined efforts of the latest technology and the skills of this medical professional, the patient can undergo the necessary procedures safely.