What are the NObreath Infection Control Maintenance Guidelines?
For the Bedfont NObreath device and NObreath Dock
Before using any of the above equipment, the operating manual should be read and fully understood.
Infection control
Washing hands before and after testing is highly recommended for both operator and user as part of a sensible infection control regime.
The NObreath FeNO device is integrated with antimicrobial technology for improved infection control. The antimicrobial technology has properties that boost infection control offering a low cost, long lifetime mouthpiece with an efficiency rate of >99% (bacteria) and >98% (viruses)(1).
The NObreath uses a single-patient use mouthpiece that can be used up to 10 times by a single patient. Re-use of the mouthpiece between patients can increase the risk of cross-infections.
Take advice from your infection control expert before use on patients with known communicable diseases/conditions.
It is preferable that the user attaches their own mouthpiece to the device before the breath test, and detaches and disposes of it once the test is complete.
Whilst the user is exhaling, the operator should avoid positioning themselves in front of the exhaust port of the instrument.
Routine maintenance
See the operating manual for full maintenance instructions.
- The NObreath should be calibrated at least annually or the NO sensor should be replaced
- NO sensor should be replaced every 5 years
- The NO scrubber should be replaced annually
- The breath drying cartridge should be replaced every 5 years • It is best practice to not let the battery run flat
Cleaning
Wipe the external surfaces of the instrument with a product specifically developed for this purpose. The NObreath device should be cleaned for initial use and after each patient use. Bedfont recommends wiping the instrument external surfaces between each patient with an alcohol-free wipe specifically designed for this purpose. A list of approved wipes can be found here: https://www.bedfont.com/cleaning-bedfont-devices.
NEVER use alcohol or cleaning products containing alcohol or other organic solvents as these vapours will damage the sensor within the instrument.
Under no circumstances should the instrument be immersed in or splashed with liquid.
References
1. Public Health England. An Evaluation of Filtration Efficiencies Against Bacterial and Viral Aerosol Challenges. Salisbury: Public Health England; 2020.
If the problem persists or has not been resolved by the information provided above, please contact Bedfont or your local distributor for more advice.