The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), United Kingdom issued a Medical Device Alert concerning all anaesthetic machines and associated devices.

According to the MHRA, the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland (AAGBI) reported that 'failure to check the anaesthetic machine and/or the breathing system features as a major contributory factor in many anaesthetic misadventures, including some that have resulted in hypoxic brain damage or death'.

The MHRA urges users to take the following actions:

• Be aware that the AAGBI has published an updated version of 'Checking Anaesthetic Equipment' endorsed by all UK Chief Medical Officers and the Royal College of Anaesthetists.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
• Check anaesthetic machines and all breathing system components before use.

For details, please refer to the following MHRA website: 
http://www.mhra.gov.uk/Safetyinformation/Safetywarningsalertsandrecalls/MedicalDeviceAlerts/index.htm

Posted 7 June 2012