Unpacking Your ICU

1. Carefully unpack the ICU and all included components.

• Verify the contents match the packing list (e.g., ICU unit, power cable, accessories).
  

2. Place the ICU on a flat, stable surface. If it's a double-stacked unit, ensure the floor can support the weight.

Positioning the ICU

1. Choose the Location:

• Ensure at least 10 cm (4 inches) of clearance behind the ICU for ventilation.
• Keep the top and at least one side open for proper airflow if the unit is placed in an enclosed space.

2. Avoid Direct Heat or Sunlight:

• Place the ICU away from direct sunlight, heating vents, or other heat sources to maintain stable internal temperatures.

Connecting to Power

1. Plug the ICU into a standard 15A outlet.

• If using two ICUs, ensure the outlet can handle both units (15A capacity supports two VetFlex ICUs).

2. Turn on the ICU using the power switch on the control panel.

Setting Up Oxygen Supply

1. For Centralized Oxygen Supply:

• Connect the oxygen inlet on the ICU to the centralized oxygen source using a DISS or Ohmeda Quick Connect fitting.
  Open the oxygen valve on the centralized system.

2. For Oxygen Concentrator:

• Use a 10L concentrator for double-stacked ICUs or 5L for single units.
• Connect the oxygen concentrator to the ICU oxygen inlet.
• Adjust the concentrator’s flow rate to match the ICU’s needs:
  Single ICU: Set to 5 LPM or higher.
  Double ICU: Distribute evenly to 5 LPM per chamber.

Air Conditioner Drainage Setup

1. Locate the A/C Drainage Port at the back of the unit.
2. Attach the included drainage hose securely to the port.
3. Position the other end of the hose in a stable collection container placed below the level of the port to allow gravity drainage.
4. Inspect the hose for kinks or blockages.

Stabilizing the Chamber Environment

1. Temperature:

• Set the desired chamber temperature using the control panel. Adjust with the "+" or "–" buttons and press Confirm.

2. Oxygen Levels:

• Set the target oxygen concentration on the display. Adjust using the "+" or "–" buttons and press Confirm.

3. CO₂ Monitoring:

• The system automatically switches to external circulation if CO₂ levels exceed 2000ppm. Check for proper oxygen flow if this occurs.

4. Allow the chamber to stabilize for 1–2 minutes before use.

 Preparing the ICU for a Patient

1. Close all doors securely and verify the FlexFeed Access Ports are tightly shut.

2. Use the control panel to activate any additional features, such as:

• Ion sterilization for a pre-treatment clean.
• Nebulizer or humidity control, if required.

3. Monitor the chamber readings for stability before introducing the patient.

Placing the Patient Inside

1. Gently place the patient inside the ICU.
2. Close and secure the doors.
3. Recheck all settings, ensuring temperature, oxygen, and humidity levels meet the patient’s needs.

Post-Treatment Shutdown

1. Switch to External Circulation Mode to stabilize the chamber with fresh air.
2. Gradually reduce oxygen flow to normalize the environment.
3. Power down the ICU and oxygen concentrator (if used).
4. Open the doors and remove the patient.

Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Wipe the interior with a stainless steel-safe sanitizing cleaner after each use.
2. Empty and inspect the A/C drainage container as needed.
3. Activate the ion sterilization function to maintain a sterile environment for future use.