Comparative Analysis of Ventilator Parameter Measurements When Connected to Internal and External Nebulizers Using a Gas Flow Analyzer

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study analyzes differences in ventilator parameter measurements when using internal and external nebulizers based on the calibration method standard HK.02.02/D/43649/2024, using a Fluke VT305 Gas Flow Analyzer as the reference instrument. Experimental testing was conducted on four ventilator units operating in Volume Control mode. The evaluated parameters included Inspiratory Tidal Volume (VTi), Expiratory Tidal Volume (VTe), Minute Volume (MV), and Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP). The results showed differences in ventilator parameter values between internal and external nebulizer use across all tested units, with statistical analysis indicating significant differences for all parameters (p = 0.00). Evaluation against the ±10% tolerance limit revealed that two ventilators remained within the tolerance range when using an external nebulizer, with maximum deviations of +6.97% and +9.74% in the MV parameter. In contrast, the other two ventilators exceeded the ±10% tolerance limit for VTi, VTe, and MV when using an external nebulizer, with maximum deviations reaching +36.69% and −38.05% in the MV parameter. The use of an internal nebulizer consistently produced more stable parameter values and remained within the tolerance range for all ventilator units. These findings indicate that internal nebulizers are more recommended to maintain ventilator accuracy in accordance with calibration standards, while the use of external nebulizers requires careful consideration of the flow compensation capabilities of specific ventilator systems.

INDEX TERMS Ventilator, Calibration, Nebulizer, Gas Flow Analyzer, Tolerance Limits.