North Manchester General Hospital - Ventilator and Humidifier

UPDATE: This equipment was delivered in 2004. 

The newly refurbished Neo-Natal Department at North Manchester General Hospital treats up to 14 babies at any time, with two intensive care beds. Up to 250 pre-term and seriously ill babies are treated each year on the unit. Patients come to the hospital from the whole of North Manchester, including some of the most deprived areas in the city. Funding has traditionally been in short supply at the hospital, with babies frequently being forced transfer to the regional centres such as St Mary’s Hospital. This involves a traumatic journey across the city centre, and separation from the mother.

The SLE Ventilator and Humidifier assists very small or very sick babies with their breathing until they are capable of breathing alone. It works by placing a tube in the mouth to administer oxygen, and also monitors blood gases, so staff can respond quickly and effectively to the needs of tiny babies.

This equipment is used for pre-term babies who may have insufficiently developed lungs. It is also used for babies who are full term but who have had a difficult labour. Often a short-term intervention with a ventilator can have a huge impact on the long-term health of a baby.

The ventilator costs £19,500 and the humidifier is £1,400 with a total cost of £20,900.00.