Hamil-ton Medical 950185 1.88m Ventilator Flow Sensor 15M5F 22M Connector

Hamil-ton Medical 950185 1.88m Ventilator Flow Sensor 15M5F 22M Connector

Brief introduction

The Hamil-ton Medical 950185 is an original, reusable proximal flow sensor designed for adult and pediatric patients. It is a precision component that fits between a Y-connector and the patient's airway to measure the flow rate of respiratory gases into and out of the lungs.

The sensor takes readings directly at the patient's airway. This allows the ventilator to gain a clearer understanding of the patient's actual breathing status, such as tidal volume, minute ventilation, and pressure. The sensor comes with a 1.88-meter tubing and uses a 15M×15F/22M combination connector, making it compatible with standard breathing circuits. The sensor is autoclaved.

Functions

The 950185 sensor directly measures airflow at the patient's airway. It does not estimate tidal volume based on sensors inside the ventilator; instead, it measures airflow directly at the patient's airway.

This sensor operates on the principle of a hot-wire anemometer. The heating element is cooled by the airflow, and the sensor determines the flow rate by measuring this cooling effect. The flow rate ranges from -180 to +180 L/min, and the resistance is less than 0.027 cmH₂O/(L/min), therefore it does not affect the patient's breathing.

Autoclavable for repeated use. The sensor is designed for reprocessing. It can be cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized in an autoclave, allowing it to be reused for multiple patients.

Installation

• Connect the sensor’s ventilator‑side connector (OD15) to the inspiratory and expiratory ports on the ventilator.
• Connect the patient‑side connector (OD22/ID15) to the Y‑piece of the patient’s breathing circuit.
• Secure the sensor’s tubing to the breathing circuit tubes using the provided tube clips, ensuring they don’t kink or pull on the patient.
• Make sure the flow direction index on the sensor points toward the patient. The flap inside the sensor is a one‑way valve that ensures correct gas flow.
• Perform a tightness test and visual inspection to check for leaks or damage.
• Calibrate the sensor using the ventilator’s calibration menu before putting it on the patient. The ventilator will walk you through the process, which usually involves occluding the patient connector.

Notice

Calibrate before each use. The sensor must be calibrated prior to every patient use via the ventilator’s calibration menu. If the first calibration fails, you may try once more. If it fails a second time, discard the sensor.

Inspect the sensor before each use. Visually check the sensor body, the tubing, and the internal flap for any signs of damage, debris, or moisture. Do not use a sensor that appears cracked, worn, or contaminated.

Replace the sensor according to hospital infection control protocols. The sensor has a recommended operating time of 28 days. Replace it sooner if contamination or performance issues are suspected.