Procedure 36 — Treatment: Ventilator

What is the clinical indication for placing a patient on the ventilator?

A patient who has been successfully orotracheally intubated.

What airway status is a contraindication for ventilator use?

The patient is not intubated via an orotracheal tube.

What situational contraindication relates to manual ventilation?

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

What situational contraindication relates to non-invasive ventilation?

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

What legal documentation can contraindicate ventilator use?

Legal paperwork, such as a DNR or Medical POA, stating it is against the patient's wishes.

What patient weight is a contraindication for ventilator use?

Patients under 20 kg.

What metabolic condition is a contraindication for ventilator use?

Metabolic acidosis where the patient is compensating by breathing faster than the ventilator's settings can handle.

What equipment issue is a contraindication for ventilator use?

Equipment failure.

What should be checked in the system before connecting the ventilator?

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

How is the oxygen source connected to the ventilator?

Turn on oxygen and connect oxygen tubing to the source via quick connect.

What tidal volume setting is used on the ventilator?

8-10 mL for every kg of body weight.

What else must be set on the ventilator besides tidal volume?

The appropriate respiratory rate.

Where is the ventilator connected once settings are configured?

To the secured advanced airway tube.

What should be monitored once the ventilator is connected?

The patient, for adequate ventilation and oxygenation.

Name four things that should be continuously reassessed while a patient is on the ventilator.

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

What fifth thing should be continuously reassessed while a patient is on the ventilator?

Breath sounds.

What should be communicated to the hospital before arrival with a ventilated patient?

Your ETA, so they can prepare appropriate staff.

What must be documented on the EPCR after ventilator use?

The treatment, ventilator settings, and patient response.

What must not be left at the hospital after transporting a ventilated patient?

The ventilator and its accessories.

What provider level performs the ventilator procedure?

EMT-P.