A respiratory apparatus includes an instrument introduction section that
is used for introducing an instrument into an artificial airway of a
patient. The instrument introduction section has a distal end and
proximal end with an opening which allows for insertion of the instrument
into the instrument introduction section. The instrument is movable
through the passageway in the instrument introduction section between the
proximal and distal ends. A valve is located in the instrument
introduction section and has a closed position in which the instrument
may be isolated from the artificial airway of the patient. The valve at
least substantially blocks the passageway of the instrument introduction
section when in the closed position. The valve also has an open position
that allows for the instrument to be advanced through the instrument
introduction section. A manifold is attached to the distal end of the
instrument introduction section. The manifold is in communication with
the artificial airway of the patient.