Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

How often should FIO2 monitors be calibrated prior to initial patient use?

1. Once a week

2. Daily

3. After every shift

4. Prior to use on the first patient

The correct answer is: Prior to use on the first patient

FIO2 monitors are critical devices used to measure the fraction of inspired oxygen delivered to the patient. Calibrating these monitors prior to initial patient use ensures that they provide accurate readings, which are essential for safe and effective patient management. This calibration process verifies that the monitor can detect and report the correct levels of oxygen being administered, allowing healthcare professionals to adjust settings appropriately and avoid potential complications related to oxygen delivery. Ensuring that the monitor is calibrated before it is used for the first patient helps to confirm its reliability and accuracy. Some devices may drift out of calibration over time due to various factors, such as environmental conditions or hardware issues, making it vital to establish a baseline measurement before patient interactions. Regular calibration schedules, such as weekly or daily, are important for device maintenance, but they do not replace the critical step of ensuring that the monitor is properly calibrated prior to its first use on a patient. This level of diligence demonstrates a commitment to patient safety and adherence to best practices in anesthesia equipment handling.