Patent ID: 9168350
Filing Date: 2015-10-27
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. A breathing assistance apparatus adapted to deliver humidified gases at a desired level of humidity, flow and temperature for treatment of a patient, the apparatus comprising: a) a gases supply arrangement providing a flow of gases, b) a humidifier having a chamber adapted to receive a volume of water and a chamber heater to heat the water in the chamber, the chamber including an inlet and an outlet, c) a transportation pathway to convey the humidified gases from the humidifier to the patient, the transportation pathway comprising a pathway heater having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end being adjacent the humidifier, the pathway heater being configured to heat the transportation pathway, and d) a controller having stored instructions to complete the following steps following a conclusion of treatment of the patient: i) switch off power to the chamber heater, ii) set the flow of gases from the gases supply arrangement for a predetermined time, and switch off power to the chamber heater for at least a portion of the predetermined time, and iii) after the predetermined time, switch off the gases supply arrangement, and e) wherein the controller includes stored instructions to determine the conclusion of treatment of the patient when a substantial increase of flow of gases is detected exiting the gas supply arrangement for a second predetermined period of time.