What are the Smokerlyzer Maintenance Guidelines
For Bedfont Smokerlyzer, Gastrolyzer and ToxCO Devices
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 Smokerlyzer, ToxCO, and Gastro+ devices are integrated with an antimicrobial technology for improved infection control.
The devices can use either a SteriBreath mouthpiece that connects to the device via
a D-piece or a OneBreath mouthpiece that connects directly to the device. Both the SteriBreath and OneBreath mouthpieces are single-use only as re-use can increase the risk of cross-infection.
The D-piece and OneBreath both contain a one-way valve to prevent patients drawing air back from the device. An integrated infection control filter removes and traps >99% of airborne bacteria and >97% of viruses(1).
Bedfont recommends that the D-piece is replaced every 30 days or if visibly soiled. The D-piece cannot be sterilised as this process may affect the positioning of the valve. It is possible that saliva can build up inside the D-piece if they are not replaced regularly, which may over time affect the valve and efficacy of the filter material.
The OneBreath is a single-use bacterial filter mouthpiece and should be replaced after every patient. The OneBreath cannot be sterilised as this process may affect the positioning of the valve. Re-use of the OneBreath can increase the risk of cross-infection.
It is preferable that, where possible, the user attaches their own SteriBreath mouthpiece to the D-piece before the breath test, and detaches and disposes of it once the test is complete. It is preferable that the user attaches their own OneBreath 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 D-piece requires changing
at least every 30 days or if visibly soiled. A reminder will appear on the Micro+, piCO, piCObaby, Gastro+ and ToxCO start-up screens. Batteries should be replaced when indicated. They should be removed if the instrument is not likely to be used for some time.
Calibration
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The Micro+, piCO, piCObaby do not require calibration
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The Gastro+ should be calibrated with 100ppm H2 in air once every 3 months; an onscreen reminder will display every 90 days
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The ToxCO should be calibrated with 50ppm CO in air; an onscreen reminder will display every 6 months, however the ToxCO should be calibrated at least once a year
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It is recommended that only Bedfont calibration gas is used; the unit may give false readings if not calibrated.
Cleaning
Wipe the external surfaces of the instrument with a product specifically developed for this purpose. The device should be cleaned for initial use and after each patient use. Bedfont® recommends wiping the instrument and D-piece 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.
Contact Bedfont or your local distributor for replacements:
- SteriBreath single-use mouthpiece for use with the D-piece
- D-piece bacterial filter for use with the SteriBreath mouthpiece
- AA alkaline batteries.
References
1. Public Health England. An Evaluation of Filtration Efficiencies Against Bacterial and Viral Aerosol Challenges. London: Public Health England; 2017
If the problem persists or has not been resolved by the information provided above, please contact Bedfont or your local distributor for more advice.