Emergency Equipment Guides

PEM

BabyPAC

  • A portable mechanical ventilator designed for neonatal and paediatric transport.

  • Provides both pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV) and manual ventilation.

  • Used in ambulances, helicopters, and inter-hospital transfers.

  • Ensures safe ventilation of premature or critically ill babies during transport.

Vapotherm

  • A respiratory support device that delivers humidified and heated oxygen via a nasal cannula.

  • Used in neonates and infants with respiratory distress, bronchiolitis, or hypoxaemia.

  • Provides precise FiO₂ control, reduces work of breathing, and can offer mild positive pressure.

Fluid Warmer

  • Warms IV fluids, blood, and enteral feeds to prevent hypothermia in neonates.

  • Helps maintain normothermia, especially in preterm infants or during critical care interventions.

  • Reduces cold stress, which can cause hypoglycaemia, metabolic acidosis, and increased oxygen consumption.

Adult

Oxylog Checks

  • Oxylog prechecks ensure the ventilator is functioning correctly before use. They include:

    • Inspecting the device for damage

    • Verifying oxygen supply and tubing connections

    • Running a self-test

    • Confirming alarm functionality

    • Checking ventilation mode and settings

    • Testing manual ventilation.

CAT Tourniquet

  • Inspect for any damage or wear

  • Ensure the windlass (pole) and strap function properly

  • Check the buckle and Velcro for secure fastening

  • Confirm the time strap is intact

  • Practice proper application for readiness

Steps to Apply a CAT Tourniquet:

  1. Place the tourniquet 2-3 inches above the bleeding site (not over a joint).

  2. Pass the strap through the buckle and tighten it firmly around the limb.

  3. Twist the pole until bleeding stops.

  4. Secure the pole into the retention clip.

  5. Wrap the time strap around the pole and record the application time.

  6. Continuously monitor for effectiveness and adjust if needed.

Cold Humidified Oxygen Circuit

A cold humidified oxygen circuit delivers oxygen with added moisture to prevent airway dryness and irritation. It consists of an oxygen source, a humidifier chamber filled with sterile water, and tubing connected to the patient via a mask, nasal cannula, or tracheostomy.

In the emergency department (ED), it is used for patients with respiratory distress, upper airway inflammation (e.g., croup, burns, anaphylaxis), or conditions requiring prolonged oxygen therapy. Proper setup and monitoring ensure effective oxygenation while maintaining patient comfort.

Page Contributors

Dr Jennifer Mann
PEM Consultant

Dr Sunny Jutla
Consultant in Emergency Medicine, Lead for EM3

Tom Brown
Website Designer

Sarah Francis
Education and Practice Development Deputy Sister Emergency Medicine