21(st) Century - Still No Standardization

SUMMARY: Standardization of anaesthetic equipment is needed for safe anaesthetic practice. Various organizations and regulatory bodies have been made throughout world to formulate and control standards for anaesthesia equipment including endotracheal tubes. All endotracheal tubes must conform to ASTM standards. This has medico-legal importance also. Regulatory bodies should look after the whole process right from the manufacturers to the actual users. The Indian Society of Anaesthesiologists promotes safe anaesthetic practice, by establishing purchase guidelines for equipments and drugs. It is working in collaboration with World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists. Standards have made anaesthesia and critical care equipment much safer over the years. There is need to form standards for various equipment in India.