Which of the following are contraindications for heat and moisture exchangers?
1) Presence of thick, copious, or bloody secretions
2) Presence of a large leak around artificial airway
3) When a patient is suffering from hyperpyrexia
4) When a patient's minute ventilation exceeds 10 L/min

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Heat and moisture exchangers are contraindicated in the presence of thick, copious, or bloody secretions because they can clog the device. A large leak around the artificial airway can also compromise the effectiveness of the heat and moisture exchanger. When a patient's minute ventilation exceeds 10 L/min, the device may not be able to adequately condition the increased airflow, making these situations contraindications. Hyperpyrexia (extremely high fever) is not specifically a contraindication for using heat and moisture exchangers.

Which of the Following Are Contraindications for Heat and Moisture