10-2
10.2 Alarm Categories
By nature, the ventilator’s alarms fall into three categories: physiological alarms, technical
alarms and prompt messages.
1. Physiological alarms
Physiological alarms, also called patient status alarms, are triggered by a monitored
parameter value that violates set alarm limits or an abnormal patient condition.
Physiological alarm messages are displayed in the alarm message field.
2. Technical alarms
Technical alarms, also called system status alarms, are triggered by a device malfunction
or a patient data distortion due to proper operation or mechanical problems. Technical
alarm messages are displayed in the alarm message field.
3. Prompt messages
As a matter of fact, prompt messages are not alarm messages. Apart from the
physiological and technical alarm messages, the ventilator will show some messages
telling the system status. Messages of this kind are included into the prompt message
category and are usually displayed in the prompt message field.
10.3 Alarm Priority Levels
By severity, the ventilator’s alarms fall into three categories: high priority alarms, medium
priority alarms and low priority alarms.
The priorities for all alarms are preset before the ventilator leaves the factory and are not user
adjustable.
10.4 Alarm Signals
When an alarm occurs, the ventilator will indicate it to the user through visual or audible
alarm signals.
Alarm lamp.
Audible alarm tones.
Alarm message.
Flashing numeric.