Author: Aaron Lessen, MD

Educational Pearls:

Dyspnea can occur in up to 50% of intubated patients
Dyspnea is associated with prolonged mechanical intubation
Often goes undiagnosed as these patients have difficulty communicating
Expert opinion on reducing sensation of dyspnea
- Reduce stimulation of respiratory drive like fever and acidosis
- Give bronchodilators for patients with wheezing
- Optimize the ventilator settings
- Use medications for comfort (i.e. opioids, benzodiazepines)

References:

Decavèle M, Similowski T, Demoule A. Detection and management of dyspnea in mechanically ventilated patients. Curr Opin Crit Care. 2019 Feb;25(1):86-94. doi: 10.1097/MCC.0000000000000574. PubMed PMID: 30531366.

Summarized by Travis Barlock, MS4 | Edited by Erik Verzemnieks, MD

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