Abstract
There are few data available on the efficacy and reliability of PEEP valves for a transport ventilator. We evaluated PEEP valves manufactured by Ambu(R), Inspiron(R), Smiths Industries(R), and Vital signs(R) co. The Smiths Industries(R) products had the biggest differences between the preset indicators and measured pressures at PEEP 5, 10, 15cmH2O in comparison with other products. Pressure decrements at PEEP 5, 10, 15cmH2O were larger in the Inspiron(R) and the Vital signs(R) products than in others, and the decrements tended to increase at higher PEEPs. Resistance created by the PEEP valves were negligible. We conclude that pressure monitoring is required for the safe and effective use of commercially available PEEP valves.
