Breathing circuit, ventilator, and patient interface not included.
Breathing through a ventilator circuit bypasses the nose and upper airway's normal job of warming and humidifying air. An HME restores some of that passively: exhaled warmth and moisture are captured by the media and returned on the next inhalation, helping keep secretions from drying out without an active heated humidifier. The filter element additionally helps keep contaminants out of the circuit.
Two things distinguish this version:
Small pediatric volume. Size isn't cosmetic here — a smaller internal volume means less dead space and lower resistance, matched to smaller tidal volumes. Using an adult HME on a small patient adds proportionally far more dead space.
Angled body. The angled geometry lets the circuit approach the patient connection at a bend rather than straight on. In practice that means a more compact profile near the face and less leverage pulling on the interface — helpful with small patients, where circuit drag has more effect on a small tracheostomy tube or mask.
The correct HME size and configuration are specified by the clinical team.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product type | HME filter (heat & moisture exchanger with filter) |
| Patient size | Pediatric — small |
| Configuration | Angled |
| Pack quantity | 50 |
| Use | Single-patient, disposable |
| Position | Inline, at the patient connection |
| Connections | Standard circuit fittings (confirm sizes from packaging) |
| Related products | Pediatric HME (24969) · Adult HME (24967) |
| ResMed reference / SKU | 24968 |
| Prescription | Clinician-directed |
| Brand | ResMed |
Fit the HME in the position specified in your circuit setup, normally between the patient interface and the circuit. Replace it per the manufacturer's instructions — commonly every 24 hours, and sooner if it becomes visibly soiled, wet, or resistant to flow. A saturated or clogged HME increases breathing resistance, which is a particular concern in small patients. Do not combine an HME with active heated humidification unless your clinical protocol specifically allows it, as this can saturate the HME. Monitor for increased resistance and follow your clinical team's guidance.
What is an HME filter? A passive "artificial nose" that captures heat and moisture from exhaled breath and returns them on the next inhalation, with filter media that helps keep the circuit clean.
How many are in the pack? Fifty.
What does "small angled" mean? "Small" refers to the pediatric internal volume (less dead space, matched to smaller tidal volumes); "angled" refers to the body shape, which keeps the connection compact at the patient and reduces pull on the interface.
How does it differ from the other pediatric HME (24969)? Both are pediatric; this one is the small angled configuration. Your clinical team specifies which configuration to use.
How often should it be changed? Typically every 24 hours, and sooner if soiled, wet, or harder to breathe through. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and your protocol.
Can I use it with a heated humidifier at the same time? Generally no — the combination can saturate the HME. Follow your clinical team's protocol.
Do I need a prescription? Yes — respiratory consumables are used under clinical direction. Confirm your setup with your provider.
Can I get them delivered in Brooklyn or shipped nationwide? Yes — Task Supply Corp offers USPS shipping throughout the continental U.S., plus local pickup and delivery in Brooklyn and all five boroughs of New York City.
For use under clinical direction. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and replacement, and your provider's or facility's protocol. Replace immediately if breathing resistance increases or the device becomes soiled or saturated.
Sources: Astral components card (PDF) · Astral accessories compatibility list (PDF)