Critical Care Time 61. Vents 101
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Nov 3, 2025 Cyrus and Nick dive deep into the world of mechanical ventilation, breaking down its essential goals like oxygenation and airway protection. They explore the differences between ventilation and oxygenation, how various ventilator modes function, and the importance of measuring pressures. Listeners learn about modes like Assist Control and Pressure Support, and the pitfalls to avoid when managing patients. With practical tips and insights, they ensure that both novices and seasoned pros will grasp vital concepts in critical care.
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Three Core Reasons For Ventilation
- Mechanical ventilation serves three main purposes: oxygenation, ventilation (CO2 removal), and airway protection.
- Your ventilator strategy should map to which of these goals the patient needs most support for.
Set Goals: Safety, Comfort, Liberation
- Prioritize safety, patient comfort/synchrony, and facilitating weaning when setting the ventilator.
- Choose the mode everyone understands to reduce errors and sedation needs.
Ventilation Vs Oxygenation Drivers
- Minute ventilation (RR × tidal volume) primarily controls CO2 removal.
- Mean airway pressure and FiO2 primarily control oxygenation.
