- The training program includes a pre-learning phase that allows participants to familiarize themselves with foundational concepts before engaging in in-person interactions with the facilitator.
- Following the pre-learning phase, participants will have the opportunity to meet with the facilitator in a physical classroom setting. This direct interaction is crucial for addressing any questions or concerns that may have arisen during the self-study period.
- Additionally, the physical classroom component is designed to facilitate hands-on practical training. This aspect of the program allows participants to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, enhancing their understanding and retention of the material. Working under the guidance of an experienced facilitator, learners can practice skills, collaborate with peers, and gain valuable insights that are difficult to achieve through online learning alone.
- Overall, this structured approach—combining pre-learning with direct facilitator contact and practical classroom experiences—ensures a comprehensive and effective learning journey that accommodates various learning styles and maximizes participant engagement.
Care of the calibration syringe Copy TEST COURSE Jan 2023
Care of the calibration syringe
The syringe must be kept at room temperature. Holding the syringe body to steady the syringe during a calibration verification can raise its temperature and contribute to measurement error.
1. Visual Inspection
Carry out visual inspections of the syringe on a regular basis to check for any obvious defects. A syringe may be out of calibration if the baffle is reset or accidentally moved.
| Care of the Calibration Syringe | |
| 1. | Visual Inspection |
| 2. | Syringe Leak Testing |
| 3. | Syringe Smoothness Test |
| 4. | Revalidation by the manufacturer |
2. Syringe Leak Testing
Figure 4.7: Example syringe leak test. Occlude the syringe outlet port and push on the plunger to see if there is movement
The 3-L calibration syringe should be tested for leaks routinely – suggested on a monthly basis1. A leak in the volume chamber will result in volume loss and inaccurate results until repairs are made. If a volume loss occurs and a leak in the volume chamber has been detected, the spirometer cannot be relied upon to give accurate results until repairs are made.
The leak test is performed by placing a hand over the outlet of the syringe and pressing the syringe plunger in. No air should escape. Secondly the syringe should be emptied, and in an empty position should be checked by again placing a hand over the outlet, then pulling gently on the syringe handle. No air should enter the syringe.
3. Syringe Smoothness Test
Figure 4.8: Students practicing the syringe smoothness test
The syringe smoothness test takes place by moving the syringe plunger in and out to check that the action is smooth, without catching or stuttering. Syringes that do not move smoothly may not deliver proper volume and should be sent for service. See below images for calibration carried out with a smooth syringe and one with a sticky syringe.
4. Revalidation by the manufacturer
The manufacturer must provide recommendations concerning appropriate intervals between checks of the syringe accuracy and provide a certificate (like the one in the image on the right) to confirm that the syringe is reading within 0.015 L (15mls) or 0.5% of the full 3L syringe volume. Mostly this is done annually or biannually.
Figure 4.9: Calibration check conducted with a smooth syringe and then a sticky syringe
Should the calibration check not be valid, all testing should stop and the equipment must be sent back to the manufacturer for revalidation. A dropped or damaged syringe should be considered out of calibration until it is checked.
