DESCRIPTION

This equipment is designed to assist breathing in intubated patients (patients whose breathing tube is internal, usually inserted down the throat.) Unlike many of the other kinds of medical equipment, ventilators are life-sustaining devices and are classed by the FDA as Level 3 devices. They can run on AC power, on the internal rechargeable battery, or on an external battery. Ventilators should receive full preventive maintenance at least once a year or after 6000 hours of use, whichever comes first. An internal counter tracks the hours of usage, and usage can be read from the patient pressure meter on the front panel. Vents can only be serviced by manufacturer-trained technicians.