Abstract
Evaluation of gas hygrometry allowed an improvement and progressive diversification of the humidification devices used. The main techniques to evaluate the performances of the heat and moisture exchangers (HME) and of the heated humidifiers (HH) in terms of humidification are mainly used within the framework of research. The technique of visual evaluation of condensation on the flex-tube or on the humidification chamber’s wall is feasible at the patient bedside but has several limitations. Many techniques to measure the moisture of gases exist. The most frequently used in the clinical setting are the psychrometric method and the capacitance hygrometers usable on patients (during invasive or non-invasive ventilation) or on benches. Gravimetry (used by the standard ISO 9360) has technical limitations and can be used only on bench. Psychrometry and gravimetry are generally used for clinical research, whereas the manufacturers of the humidification systems often use gravimetry.
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Lellouche, F. (2012). Main Techniques for Evaluating the Performances of Humidification Devices Used for Mechanical Ventilation. In: Esquinas, A. (eds) Humidification in the Intensive Care Unit. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-02974-5_7
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