The high-frequency oscillating ventilator (HFOV) is one of several high-frequency ventilators
shown to be effective in the management of neonates in respiratory failure, especially
those with severe barotrauma (Null et al., 1990). Other high-frequency ventilators
include high-frequency positive-pressure ventilators, high-frequency jet ventilators, and
high-frequency flow interruptors. HFOVs are capable of supporting the ventilatory and
oxygenation requirements of neonates, full-term infants, and children who might be failing
despite conventional ventilation. This type of ventilator uses a diaphragmatically
sealed, electromagnetically driven piston, which is the main mechanical difference
between the jet ventilator and conventional ventilators. For this type of ventilator, it is
important to follow the manufacture’s suggestions on a PM program. Again, like the traditional
ventilators, test equipment is required for PMs and calibration, to ensure the
proper operation of the ventilators. The drive piston requires changing after it has performed
a certain amount of cycles, as well as calibration every six months. The piston
requires centering, which requires applying electrical counterforces to the piston coil,
which maintains the piston centering. This amount of pressure can range from ± 130
cmH20, with an accuracy of ± 2% of reading or ± 2 cmH20. The same specifications for
medical gases, emergency power, and backup battery of the conventional ventilator apply
to the high-frequency ventilator.