Measuring temperature and humidity in the breathing circuit.
Accurate measurement of temperature and humidity in the breathing circuit can be a difficult task. This article introduces basic humidity concepts, outlines the problems that are unique to the breathing circuit, and describes the various methods that are available to measure temperature and humidity. Recommendations are made on how to measure temperature and humidity in four commonly encountered situations.
Seakins
P J
PJ
Fisher and Paykel Healthcare, Auckland, New Zealand.
D006801:Humans; D006813:Humidity; D013058:Mass Spectrometry; D016343:Monitoring, Intraoperative / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011659:Pulmonary Gas Exchange / Q000502:physiology; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D012129:Respiratory Function Tests / Q000295:instrumentation; D015656:Respiratory Mechanics / Q000502:physiology*; D013696:Temperature; D013821:Thermometers