Abstract

Aim and Purpose: This integrative literature review aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter use within the anesthesia breathing circuit. The purpose of the recommendations is to reduce the risk of pathogen transmission to patients undergoing general anesthesia with a breathing device.

Methods: Relevant literature was critically appraised for validity and reliability. A matrix was utilized for data extraction, allowing themes to be generated as well as for categorizing findings and limitations. Inclusion criteria were current recommendations guiding filter use within the anesthesia breathing machine, indication for filter use, placement within the respiratory circuit, and recommended filter specifics.

Results: Certified HEPA filters were found to be more effective when compared with non-HEPA filters. Non-HEPA filters are unreliable and ineffective in preventing pathogen transmission in clinical studies. HEPA filters improve prevention, although their use is not without risk of complications.

Conclusions: The appropriate use of filters in the anesthetic breathing circuit is poorly understood.6 More research is required to determine the optimal use of HEPA filters in anesthesia breathing systems.

Tara Dickey

Author Details

Tara Dickey, DNAP, CRNA

Sigma Membership

Non-member

Type

Other Graduate Paper

Format Type

Text-based Document

Study Design/Type

Integrative Review

Research Approach

Other

Keywords:

HEPA Filter, Pathogen, Cross-contamination, Anesthesia Breathing Circuit, Ventilator-associated Pneumonia

Advisor

Hadenfeldt, Sharon

Degree

Doctoral-Other

Degree Grantor

Bryan College of Health Sciences

Degree Year

2020

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.

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Review Type

Faculty Approved: Degree-based Submission

Acquisition

Proxy-submission

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