Procedure 36 - Treatment: Ventilator

What clinical indication allows for ventilator use?

A patient who has been successfully orotracheally intubated.

What airway status is a contraindication for ventilator use?

If the patient is not intubated via orotracheal tube.

What ventilation preference is a contraindication for ventilator use?

If manual ventilation is more appropriate for patient condition or environment.

What alternate ventilation type is a contraindication for ventilator use?

If non-invasive ventilation is more appropriate for patient condition.

What legal documentation is a contraindication for ventilator use?

Legal paperwork (DNR, Medical POA) stating it is against the patient's wishes to be placed on a ventilator.

What weight is a contraindication for ventilator use?

Patients less than 20 kg.

What metabolic condition is a contraindication for ventilator use?

A patient with metabolic acidosis who is compensating by breathing faster than the ventilator's settings can handle.

What equipment issue is a contraindication for ventilator use?

Equipment failure.

What must be ensured about the ventilator equipment before use?

That all equipment is ready, set up, and no leaks are present in the system.

How is the oxygen tubing connected to the ventilator?

Connect oxygen tubing to the oxygen source via quick connect, after turning on oxygen.

How is ventilator volume set?

To equal 8-10 mL for every kg of body weight.

What else must be set on the ventilator besides volume?

The appropriate respiratory rate.

What is the ventilator connected to?

The secured advanced airway tube.

What should be monitored for during ventilator use?

Adequate ventilation and oxygenation.

What should be continuously reassessed during ventilator use?

Vital signs, ECG, capnography measurements, pulse oximetry, and breath sounds.

What should be communicated to the hospital during ventilator transport?

The ETA, so they can prepare for the patient with the appropriate staff members.

What should be documented on the EPCR regarding ventilator use?

The treatment, ventilator settings, and patient response.

What must be ensured regarding the ventilator equipment at the hospital?

That the ventilator and its accessories are not left at any hospital.

What provider level can operate the ventilator per CFD protocol?

EMT-P.