High Minute Volume (MVhigh)
- Usually set 5L above minute ventilation and triggered when the minute volume exceeds the upper alarm limit.
- Causes (hover over to see the necessary Tx vs mix&match)
- The minute volume exceeds the upper alarm limit
- Water in flow sensor
- Flow sensor is not calibrated or faulty
- Management
- Check ventilation settings and adjust alarm limit if necessary
- Drain water trap and dry flow sensor.
- Calibrate flow sensor and replace it if necessary
Low Minute Volume (MVlow)
- Usually set 2 to 3 L/min below mandatory and or spontaneous minute ventilation rate, minimum setting 3 to 4 L/min.
- Causes (hover over to see the necessary Tx vs mix&match)
- The minute volume has fallen below the lower alarm limit
- Obstruction
- Flow sensor is not calibrated or faulty
- Leakage or disconnection
- Device failure
- Management
- Check ventilation settings and adjust alarm limit if necessary
- Check circuit for leakage
- Check placement of ETT or face mask is fitted correctly
- Calibrate flow sensor and replace it if necessary
- Ensure the expiratory valve is properly engaged
- Manually bag or change ventilator if concerns about device
