Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for monitoring physiological parameters associated with the ventilation of infants during assisted ventilation. The infant is placed in a plethysmograph and various sensor means are used to measure flow of gas into and out of the plethysmograph and infant respiration. The outputs of the sensor means are supplied to a microcomputer system for processing. A unique calibration system is provided which constantly corrects for changing system parameters such as plethysmographic chamber air leaks, compliance and the like. Additionally, a heating system which exhibits radiant as well as convective heating properties is provided to maintain the infant in a constant temperature environment with a minimal amount of temperature fluctuation. From this data, ventilator breaths are discriminated from infant breaths.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for measuring variables associated with the ventilation of infants during assisted ventilation. The infant is placed in a plethysmograph and various sensor means are used to measure flow of gas into and out of the plethysmograph and infant respiration. The outputs of the sensor means are supplied to a minicomputer system for processing. From this data, ventilator breaths are discriminated from infant breaths.