IBP Pressure Module GE Ohmeda-Datex S5 Patient Monitor MN4F 887464-6

Product Specification

Here is a point-by-point guide on how to use the GE Ohmeda-Datex S5 patient monitor's IBP (Invasive Blood Pressure) module, intended for clinicians (doctors, nurses, perfusionists).

Important Note: This describes the clinical use of the module. Technical service (repair, calibration) must be performed by qualified biomedical technicians.

1. Pre-Use Setup and Preparation

• Verify Module Installation: Ensure the IBP parameter module is properly installed in one of the module bays at the top of the S5 monitor. The monitor should recognize it upon power-up.

• Select IBP Channel: On the monitor's touchscreen, select the waveform area where you want to display the IBP trace (e.g., Channel 1, 2, etc.). Then, press the corresponding parameter button (e.g., "PARAM 1") and select the specific pressure type from the menu: ART (Arterial), CVP (Central Venous), PA (Pulmonary Artery), LAP (Left Atrial Pressure), or other.

• Prepare the Pressure Tubing and Transducer: Use a dedicated, sterile, disposable pressure transducer kit. Prime the entire tubing system with sterile saline, ensuring no air bubbles are present. Connect the transducer to the patient's invasive line (e.g., arterial catheter).

• Zero the Transducer:

  1. Place the transducer at the level of the patient's phlebostatic axis (mid-axillary line, fourth intercostal space).

  2. Open the transducer's stopcock to air (atmosphere), closing the patient side.

  3. On the S5 monitor, press the "ZERO" softkey or button corresponding to the active IBP channel.

  4. Wait for the digital value to read "0" mmHg and the calibration message to disappear.

  5. Close the stopcock to air and open it to the patient.

2. Monitoring and Optimization

• Observe the Waveform: A high-quality arterial waveform should be crisp with a clear dicrotic notch. A damped waveform (sluggish, rounded) indicates air bubbles, clots, or kinks in the line. A hyper-resonant waveform (exaggerated swing) may indicate catheter whip or an overdamped system.

• Set Alarms: Configure appropriate high and low alarm limits for the monitored pressure. Press the "ALARMS" button, select the IBP parameter, and set sensible limits to alert you to critical changes.

• Fast-Flush Test (Square-Wave Test): Periodically perform a fast-flush test to check the system's dynamic response. Actuate the continuous flush device briefly. The monitor should display a rapid square-wave drop-off followed by one or two sharp oscillations before returning to baseline. This confirms the system is correctly damped.

• Use the Scale/Scalebeat Function: Adjust the waveform scale for optimal viewing using the scale controls. The Scalebeat function freezes the waveform at set intervals to better visualize the trace on the screen.

3. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• No Waveform/Dashed Line: Check all physical connections from the patient catheter to the transducer and from the transducer cable to the monitor. Ensure the correct monitor channel is selected and the module is seated properly.

• Damped Waveform: The most common cause is air bubbles. Tap the tubing and flush the system gently. Check for kinks, clots at the catheter tip, or a closed stopcock.

• Inaccurate Reading: Re-zero the transducer. Confirm the transducer is at the correct phlebostatic axis level. If the patient's position changes, the transducer must be re-leveled and re-zeroed.

• Excessive Artifact (Noise): Ensure all connections are secure. Check that the pressure cable is not damaged and is away from other electrical cords. Stabilize the patient's catheter site to reduce motion artifact.

4. Post-Use Procedure

• Disconnect the Patient: Once monitoring is no longer required, disconnect the pressure tubing from the patient's catheter following standard sterile procedures.

• Turn Off Parameter: On the monitor, you can turn off the IBP parameter display to declutter the screen.

• Clean the Module Connector: After removing the disposable transducer cable, if the module's external connector has visible contamination, clean it with an alcohol wipe according to hospital policy. Do not immerse the module or allow liquid to enter the connector.

Final Reminder: Always follow your hospital's specific protocols for invasive pressure monitoring regarding sterile technique, zeroing frequency, and documentation.