24 March 2025
Technical Report: Assessment of Dräger Primus Anaesthetic Machine (Serial No. 05687839)
Findings:
The assessment conducted on the Dräger Primus anaesthetic machine, serial number 05687839, identified
several critical components required to restore and determine its full functionality.
1. Patient Circuits: These are essential to connect patients to the machine for anaesthesia delivery.
2. Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Cylinders (Pin Index): These are indispensable for providing the
required gases during anaesthetic procedures.
3. Vaporizers (Isoflurane and Sevoflurane): These are vital for administering volatile anaesthetic agents
effectively.
However, significant challenges were noted regarding the vaporizers. As the Dräger Primus is an older
model, the required Isoflurane and Sevoflurane vaporizers are increasingly difficult to source due to
obsolescence. Spare parts for this machine are generally hard to find, creating operational risks in
ensuring consistent patient care.
Additionally, the anaesthesia monitor currently paired with the machine was assessed as a
multi-parameter monitor, which lacks critical capabilities required for operating theatre (OT) use, such as
Anaesthetic Gas (AG) monitoring, Invasive Blood Pressure (IBP) monitoring, and End-Tidal CO2
(EtCO2) monitoring.
Recommendations:
1. Acquisition of New Machines: To ensure reliability and enhanced patient safety, it is recommended
that newer anaesthetic machines with readily available spare parts and advanced monitoring features be
procured.
2. Component Sourcing: If replacing the machine is not immediately feasible, efforts should focus on
locating the required components (patient circuits, oxygen and N2O cylinders, vaporizers) through
certified suppliers or specialized distributors.
3.Purchase of Suitable Anaesthesia Monitor: A monitor equipped with AG monitoring, IBP, and CO2
monitoring should be acquired to meet the requirements of OT environments.
Investing in modern equipment will ensure operational efficiency, reliability, and compliance with
healthcare standards. Further assistance in sourcing equipment can be provided if needed.
Report compiled by:
Stewart Saviyeri