Tafonius
Auxiliary Mode Operating Manual
Printed: 28/Feb/11
Page 13 of 15
DOCA4956
piston. The piston stays in this state until the end of the expiratory time when the inspiratory
phase begins again and the piston is driven downwards delivering gas to the patient.
At all times the piston image on the screen shows the position and actual volume under the
piston.
Warning Messages – Alerts and Alarms
There are two levels of warning messages seen whilst operating in auxiliary mode:
Alerts
These messages are accompanied by an initial 2 second audible beep but are then silent.
A flashing text message will appear on the screen in Area 1, where the
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normally sits. Alerts are non-critical events encountered during normal operation.
To clear an Alert manually press and hold any of the 4 control knobs until two beeps are
heard. Here is a list of the alerts.
BATTERY1 LOW VOLTAGE and/or
BATTERY2 LOW VOLTAGE
The indicated battery has a low voltage. This is normally because the machine is being
operated without the mains connected. Connect the mains supply and make sure the RCD
or GFCI switch at the back of the machine is on.
The alert will stay on screen until cleared. Unless the problem has been resolved the alert
will return.
MAX PRESSURE EXCEEDED LIMIT
The airway pressure exceeded the setting of the Maximum Working Pressure Limit. The
Alert will stay on screen until cleared manually.
LOW SYSTEM RESERVE VOLUME
The piston has entered the lower buffer volume of 1.5L. If this is during an active inspiratory
phase then gas will automatically be added through the vaporiser. If the vaporiser is off then
gas will still be added, but without agent.
When the piston moves out of the lower buffer zone then the Alert will be cleared.
CYLINDER EMPTY/OUT OF RESERVE
The piston is at the lower most position, i.e. zero volume. If this is during the inspiratory
phase then the full tidal volume will not have been delivered.
When the piston moves away from the zero point the Alert will be cleared.
SYSTEM FULL
The piston is at the most full position i.e. maximum volume. The Dump Valve will be opened
to allow gas to escape and prevent pressure building up.
When the piston moves away from the top point the Alert will be cleared.
CYLINDER OPEN
The cylinder mechanism has been opened. Ventilation will be inhibited in this condition.
When the cylinder is closed the Alert will be cleared.
PISTON POSITION INFO ERROR
The piston position reported from the motor is incorrect. This is usually transient and is self
correcting. Any permanent loss of position information will result in an alarm condition.
The Alert will stay on screen until cleared manually.
