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You begin by checking each part of the veterinary anesthesia machine before you turn it on. You make sure there is enough oxygen, look at the breathing circuit, and check if the vaporizer works. You should always follow safety rules when using the anesthesia machine. You watch both the machine and your patient for any changes. This helps keep you and your patient safe every time you use the veterinary anesthesia machine.
Always look at the anesthesia machine parts before you use it. Check the oxygen supply to keep your patient safe.
Pick the right breathing system for your animal's size. Check for leaks every time you use it.
Get your patient ready with premedication and good positioning. Give preoxygenation before anesthesia starts.
Use the right size endotracheal tube for your patient. Place it carefully to protect the airway during anesthesia.
Watch vital signs like heart rate and breathing closely. Check oxygen levels all through the procedure.
Do leak tests and fix any problems fast. This helps avoid risks during anesthesia.
Keep emergency drugs and equipment close by. This helps you handle emergencies quickly and safely.
Clean the anesthesia machine often and take care of it. This helps it work well and last longer.
Before you use the anesthesia machine, check it carefully. This step keeps your patient safe. It also helps you avoid problems during surgery. Always follow the same steps for every veterinary anesthesia machine.
Start by looking at every part of the machine. Check the oxygen tanks for dents or rust. Make sure the vaporizer stands up straight and is clean. Look at the flowmeters for cracks or dirt. Check the pop-off valve and manometer. They should move easily and not look broken. If you see a problem, fix it before you go on.
Tip: SHINOVA makes equipment that is easy to check and works well.
You need to make sure the oxygen supply works. Open the main valve on the oxygen tank. Watch the pressure gauge. It should show enough oxygen. If the gauge is low, get a new tank or refill it. Check the connections between the tank and the machine. They should feel tight and not loose. Loose connections can cause leaks or low pressure.
Component | What to Check | Action if Problem Found |
|---|---|---|
Oxygen Tank | Pressure, damage | Replace or refill |
Connections | Tightness, leaks | Tighten or reseal |
Pressure Gauge | Reading, cracks | Replace if faulty |
A leak test is very important for the anesthesia machine. You need to make sure no gas leaks out. There are two types of pressure checks: high-pressure and low-pressure.
For the high-pressure test, keep the vaporizer off. Close the pop-off valve. Block the patient end of the breathing circuit. Turn on the oxygen to pressurize the system. Watch the pressure gauge. It should stay the same for 10 seconds. If the pressure drops, there is a leak. Find and fix the leak before you keep going.
Now do the low-pressure test. Open the vaporizer. Do the same steps: close the pop-off valve, block the patient end, and add oxygen. Watch the pressure gauge again. It should not drop. If it does, check the vaporizer and breathing circuit for leaks. Never use the pop-off valve occlusion valve for this test.
Note: Always do both pressure checks before every procedure. This keeps your patient safe and the veterinary anesthesia machine working well.
You can trust SHINOVA machines for good pressure checks and easy care.
Setting up the breathing system is a key step before you start anesthesia. You must choose the right breathing system for your patient. The choice depends on the animal's size and weight. Always check the breathing system before each procedure.
You have two main types of breathing system circuits: rebreathing and non-rebreathing. Each type works best for different patients.
Use a rebreathing system for medium to large animals. This system lets the patient breathe in some of the gases it just exhaled. It saves oxygen and anesthetic gas. The rebreathing system uses a carbon dioxide absorber. This keeps the air safe for the patient. You can use this system for dogs over 7 kg or cats over 7 kg. Always check the breathing system for leaks before you start.
Choose a non-rebreathing system for small animals. This system gives the patient fresh gas every breath. It does not recycle exhaled gases. The non-rebreathing system works well for animals under 7 kg. It helps prevent the buildup of carbon dioxide. You must check the breathing system for proper flow and tight connections.
Tip: If you are not sure which breathing system to use, check the animal's weight and follow your clinic's protocol.
After you pick the right breathing system, you need to put it together. Connect the circuit hoses to the machine. Attach the patient end to the mask or endotracheal tube. Make sure all connections feel tight. Loose parts can cause leaks. Look at the one-way valves if your breathing system has them. They should move freely. You can use this checklist:
Connect hoses to the correct ports.
Attach the reservoir bag.
Secure the patient end.
Inspect for cracks or damage.
Confirm all valves work.
The reservoir bag lets you see the patient's breathing. It also stores extra gas. Pick a bag size that matches the patient's tidal volume. A good rule: the bag should hold at least five times the patient's normal breath. Squeeze the bag gently to check for leaks. Watch the bag move as the patient breathes. If it does not move, check the breathing system for blockages or disconnections.
Patient Weight | Breathing System Type | Reservoir Bag Size |
|---|---|---|
< 7 kg | Non-Rebreathing | 0.5 L |
7–20 kg | Rebreathing | 1–2 L |
> 20 kg | Rebreathing | 2–3 L |
Note: Always check the breathing system before every procedure. This keeps your patient safe and your equipment working well.
Getting your patient ready for anesthesia is very important. This helps make sure the procedure goes well. Good preparation keeps your patient safe and comfortable. It also helps stop problems before they start.
First, you give premedication to your patient. These drugs help keep your patient calm and lower pain. They also make it easier to start anesthesia. You pick the right drug for the animal's species, age, and health. Always look at the patient's medical record before giving any drug.
Weigh your patient with care.
Check the patient's medical history.
Pick the right drug and dose.
Clean the spot for the injection.
Give the medication as the veterinarian says.
Watch your patient for any bad reaction.
Tip: Keep emergency drugs and tools nearby. You might need them if your patient has a reaction.
Good positioning helps you take care of the airway. It also helps you watch your patient. Put your patient on a soft, padded surface. This stops pressure sores and keeps them comfy. Make sure the head and neck are straight. This makes it easier to put in a tube and helps air move well.
Place the patient on a soft mat that does not slip.
Keep the head and neck in line.
Use towels or pads to support the legs.
Do not bend or twist the body.
Make sure the chest can move up and down.
A patient in the right position breathes better and stays safer during anesthesia.
Preoxygenation fills the lungs with oxygen before anesthesia. This step gives the body more oxygen to use. It gives you extra time if you need to fix the airway or if breathing slows.
Put the oxygen mask on or connect the breathing circuit.
Give 100% oxygen for three to five minutes.
Watch your patient for stress or discomfort.
Keep the mask snug but not too tight.
Step | What You Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
Attach Mask | Put mask over nose and mouth | Makes sure oxygen gets in |
Deliver O₂ | Turn on the oxygen flow | Fills the lungs with oxygen |
Monitor | Watch breathing and comfort | Stops anxiety or escape |
Note: Preoxygenation is very important for brachycephalic breeds or patients with breathing problems.
If you follow these steps, your patient will be safe and comfortable before anesthesia starts.
You start anesthesia by giving an induction agent. This drug helps your patient fall asleep quickly and smoothly. You can use an injectable drug or a mask with inhalant gas. Always choose the method that fits your patient's needs and health status.
Confirm the patient's identity and weight.
Double-check the drug dose.
Give the induction agent slowly.
Watch the patient's breathing and heart rate.
Wait for the patient to relax and lose the blink reflex.
Tip: Keep emergency drugs and equipment close. You may need them if your patient reacts badly.
You need to place an endotracheal tube to protect the airway and deliver anesthetic gases. This step is key for safe anesthesia machine use.
Pick the right tube size for your patient. The tube should fit easily but not cause damage. If you use a tube that is too small, it may not seal well. If you use a tube that is too large, it can hurt the airway.
Animal Size | Tube Size (mm ID) | Example Species |
|---|---|---|
< 2 kg | 2.0 – 3.0 | Small cats, puppies |
2 – 7 kg | 3.5 – 5.0 | Cats, small dogs |
7 – 20 kg | 6.0 – 8.0 | Medium dogs |
> 20 kg | 9.0 – 12.0 | Large dogs |
Note: Always have two extra tubes—one size up and one size down—ready before you start.
You place the tube after the patient is asleep. Open the mouth and pull the tongue forward. Use a laryngoscope if you need better light. Slide the tube between the vocal cords. Stop when the tube tip sits just above the split in the trachea.
Check the tube for cracks or blockages.
Lubricate the tube tip.
Insert the tube gently.
Watch for coughing or resistance.
Confirm the tube is in the trachea, not the esophagus.
Tip: You can check for airflow by feeling air at the tube's end or watching the reservoir bag move.
Once you place the tube, you need to inflate the cuff. The cuff seals the airway and stops leaks. Use a syringe to add air slowly. Stop when you feel slight resistance.
Close the pop-off valve.
Squeeze the reservoir bag gently.
Listen for leaks around the mouth.
Add or remove air as needed.
Alert: Do not overinflate the cuff. Too much pressure can hurt the trachea.
Now you connect the endotracheal tube to the anesthesia machine. Attach the breathing circuit to the tube's connector. Make sure the fit is tight. Open the pop-off valve. Set the oxygen flow rate for your patient's size. Turn on the vaporizer to start delivering anesthetic gas.
Attach the circuit to the tube.
Check all connections for leaks.
Set the correct oxygen flow.
Adjust the vaporizer to the right setting.
Watch the patient's chest and the reservoir bag.
Note: Careful anesthesia machine operation keeps your patient safe and stable. Always monitor both the machine and the patient during anesthesia machine use.
Careful monitoring keeps your patient safe during anesthesia. You need to watch both the machine and the patient. This helps you spot problems early and act fast.
You must check vital signs often. These signs show how well your patient handles anesthesia.
Check the heart rate every few minutes. Use your stethoscope or a monitoring device. Count the beats for 15 seconds, then multiply by four. Compare the number to normal values for the species.
Species | Normal Heart Rate (bpm) |
|---|---|
Dog | 60–140 |
Cat | 120–180 |
Rabbit | 130–325 |
Tip: If the heart rate drops or rises quickly, check the depth of anesthesia and oxygen flow.
Watch the chest or reservoir bag. Count breaths for 30 seconds, then double the number. Normal rates change by species and size.
Dogs: 8–20 breaths per minute
Cats: 12–24 breaths per minute
If the rate slows or stops, check the airway and breathing circuit right away.
Oxygenation tells you how much oxygen the blood carries. Look for pink gums and steady breathing. Pale or blue gums mean trouble. Act fast if you see these signs.
Modern devices help you track your patient's status. They give you numbers and alarms for quick action.
Clip the pulse oximeter to the tongue or ear. It shows the oxygen saturation (SpO₂) and pulse rate. You want SpO₂ above 95%. If it drops, check the airway, oxygen supply, and breathing circuit.
Note: Wet the probe site for better readings.
The capnograph measures carbon dioxide (CO₂) in exhaled air. Attach it to the endotracheal tube. Normal end-tidal CO₂ (EtCO₂) is 35–45 mmHg. High values mean the patient does not breathe enough. Low values can mean leaks or disconnections.
Parameter | Normal Range | What to Do if Abnormal |
|---|---|---|
SpO₂ | >95% | Check oxygen, airway, circuit |
EtCO₂ | 35–45 mmHg | Adjust ventilation, check tube |
Use a Doppler or oscillometric monitor. Place the cuff on a limb or tail. Normal systolic blood pressure is 100–160 mmHg in dogs and cats. Low pressure means poor blood flow. Give fluids or adjust anesthesia as needed.
Alert: Always record readings in the patient's chart. This helps you track changes and make quick decisions.
By checking these signs and using your devices, you keep your patient safe and stable during anesthesia.
When you use a veterinary anesthesia machine, you may face problems. Quick troubleshooting keeps your patient safe and your procedure on track. Here's how you can handle common issues.
Leaks can cause low oxygen delivery or waste anesthetic gas. You need to find and fix leaks fast.
Close the pop-off valve.
Block the patient end of the circuit.
Pressurize the system using the oxygen flush.
Watch the manometer. The pressure should stay steady for at least 10 seconds.
If you see the pressure drop, you have a leak. Check these spots first:
Hose connections
Reservoir bag attachment
Vaporizer seals
Endotracheal tube cuff
Tip: Use soapy water on connections. Bubbles show where gas escapes.
Leak Source | What You Should Do |
|---|---|
Loose hose | Reconnect or tighten |
Damaged bag | Replace the bag |
Faulty vaporizer seal | Reseat or replace gasket |
Leaky tube cuff | Reinflate or change tube |
Sometimes, the machine itself causes trouble. You need to spot these problems early.
Oxygen flowmeter does not move
Vaporizer does not deliver gas
Manometer shows no pressure
Pop-off valve sticks
Check the oxygen tank. Make sure it has enough pressure.
Inspect the flowmeter. Remove blockages or replace if broken.
Confirm the vaporizer is filled and set to the right level.
Test the pop-off valve. Move it back and forth to check for sticking.
Alert: If you cannot fix the problem, stop the procedure. Switch to a backup machine if you have one.
Emergencies can happen at any time. You must act fast to keep your patient safe.
Blue or pale gums
No chest movement
Sudden drop in heart rate
Weak or absent pulse
Turn off the vaporizer.
Give 100% oxygen.
Check the airway. Make sure the tube is not blocked or kinked.
Start manual ventilation using the reservoir bag.
Call for help if you need it.
Note: Keep emergency drugs and equipment ready before you start anesthesia.
Assess the patient's airway and breathing
Check the machine for blockages or leaks
Support circulation as needed
Stay calm and follow your training. You can solve most problems if you act quickly and use your equipment well.
You need to clean the anesthesia machine after each use. This keeps the equipment safe for the next patient. First, turn off the oxygen and unplug the machine. Take off the breathing system. Remove the reservoir bag and breathing tubes.
Wash the breathing tubes and bag with mild soap and warm water. Rinse them well to get rid of all soap. Hang them up in a clean place to dry. Do not use strong chemicals. They can hurt the equipment and your patients.
Tip: Clean the mask and reusable connectors too. This helps stop germs from spreading.
Wipe the outside of the machine with a damp cloth. Focus on the vaporizer, flowmeter, and control knobs. Dry all parts before putting the machine away. Always check the breathing system for cracks or damage before using it again.
Turn off oxygen and power
Remove breathing system and reservoir bag
Wash tubes and bag with mild soap and warm water
Rinse and air dry all parts
Wipe down machine surfaces
Inspect for damage or wear
Regular care keeps your anesthesia machine working well. Check for leaks in the breathing system every week. Test the pop-off valve and manometer to see if they move easily. Look at the flowmeter and vaporizer for any damage.
Make a schedule to check hoses, seals, and gaskets. Replace any part that looks cracked or worn. Keep a log of all maintenance work. This helps you find problems and plan repairs.
Maintenance Task | How Often | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
Leak check | Weekly | Test breathing system |
Valve and flowmeter test | Weekly | Move and inspect parts |
Hose and bag inspection | Monthly | Look for cracks or leaks |
Vaporizer fill and check | Before use | Top up and inspect |
Note: Always follow the instructions from the manufacturer for your machine. SHINOVA gives helpful guides for their equipment.
By cleaning and caring for your anesthesia machine, you keep patients safe and help your equipment last longer. Make these steps a habit after every procedure.
You help keep your patients safe by following each step. First, check the veterinary anesthesia machine before you use it. Next, set up the breathing system for your patient. Watch your patient carefully while using the machine. Clean and take care of your equipment after every use. Learn new things by reading SHINOVA's guides and practicing new skills.
Always look over the rules before you start
Ask someone for help if you have trouble
Find more resources to learn extra tips
You should check for leaks before every procedure. This keeps your patient safe and helps your machine work well. Make leak checks part of your daily routine.
Pick a bag that holds at least five times your patient's normal breath. Use this table for quick reference:
Patient Weight | Bag Size |
|---|---|
< 7 kg | 0.5 L |
7–20 kg | 1–2 L |
> 20 kg | 2–3 L |
No. You must choose the circuit based on your patient's size. Use a rebreathing system for larger animals. Use a non-rebreathing system for smaller ones. This helps deliver safe and effective anesthesia.
First, check the oxygen tank for pressure. Inspect the flowmeter for blockages. If it still does not work, replace the flowmeter or call for technical support. Never use the machine if you cannot fix the problem.
Watch for chest movement and listen for breath sounds. Feel for airflow at the tube's end. You can also use a capnograph to confirm placement. If you see no signs, remove and replace the tube.
Wash them with mild soap and warm water. Rinse well and let them air dry. Do not use harsh chemicals. Always inspect for cracks or damage before the next use.
Alert:
Turn off the vaporizer. Give 100% oxygen. Check the airway and breathing circuit. Start manual ventilation if needed. Call for help right away.
Visit the SHINOVA website or read the user manual. You can also contact their support team for detailed guides and training resources.
