Name/TitleEquipment: Bird Ventilator unit

About this objectThis exhibit has been set up as an anaesthesia ventilator by combining a Bird Mark 8 Ventilator with a Bird Mark 4 transfer unit. The later consists of a concertina bag in a rigid container. During inspiration, the Mark 8 forces gas into the rigid box thus compressing the contained bag. This bag is connected to the anaesthetic circuit and thus contains anaesthetic gases which inflate the lungs when the bag is compressed. Thus an inspirtion is started and continues until either a preset airway pressure is reached (pressure cycled) or a preset volume (volume cycled) has entered the lungs. The patient then expires spontaniously. The Mark 8 can also be made to generate a negative pressure during expiration and may be used when the operator feels that this function may assist the patient.

Manufactured by the Bird Corporation, California, United States of America

Date Made1960-1980

Place MadeUnited States of America

Medium and MaterialsSteel, perspex, rubber, electrical components

MeasurementsH 110cm x W 56cm x D 56cm

CollectionThe Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Object TypeEquipment

Object numberAR#9004