Mechanical Ventilator Waveforms

A collection of flashcards that define and explain key concepts related to mechanical ventilator waveforms and their characteristics.

Mechanical Ventilator Waveforms

Real-time graphical representations of pressure, flow, and volume changes during mechanical ventilation.

Types of Waveforms

Includes pressure, flow, and volume waveforms.

Waveform Graphics

Graphical displays that help determine the cause of patient-ventilator asynchrony.

X-axis in Basic Waveforms

Most commonly represents time.

Y-axis in Basic Waveforms

Represents either volume, pressure, or flow.

Volume-Control Waveforms

Controlled mode that targets a set volume of air to be delivered.

Controlled Variables

Variables that will not change in size on the waveform unless there is a change in patient-ventilator synchrony.

Constant Flow Waveform

A basic type of flow waveform that maintains a steady flow rate.

Convex Constant Flow

Flow waveform type represented by a dotted line that exhibits convexity.

Descending Ramp Waveform

A flow waveform that decreases gradually over time.

Concave Descending Ramp

A flow waveform characterized by a concave shape that descends.

Sine Flow Pattern

A type of flow waveform with a smooth, sinusoidal shape.

Markers on Waveforms

Designated points on the waveform that indicate specific phases of the respiratory cycle.

Pressure-Time Waveform

A waveform created when flow begins and builds up to peak inspiratory pressure.

Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP)

The highest pressure reached during inhalation.

Peak Alveolar Pressure (PALV)

Pressure within the alveoli at the end of inspiration.

Transairway Pressure (PTA)

Difference between PAO and PALV, influenced by flow and resistance.

Volume-Time Waveform

A waveform that displays the volume of air delivered over time.

Controlled Mandatory Ventilation

Ventilation mode where breaths are controlled by the ventilator with no negative pressure triggers.

Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV)

Ventilation mode that combines mandatory and spontaneous breaths.

Dyssynchrony in Ventilation

When there is a mismatch between the patient’s breathing efforts and ventilator timing.

Triggering Issues

Problems with initiating ventilator breaths based on patient efforts.

Double Triggering

The ventilator delivers two breaths in rapid succession due to continued patient effort.

Ineffective Effort

Patient's inspiratory efforts do not trigger the ventilator, leading to wasted breaths.

Obstructions in Ventilation

Seen as a saw-tooth pattern in waveforms due to issues like secretions or foreign bodies.

Changes in Compliance

Variations that affect the flow and pressure waveforms due to changes in lung elasticity.

Troubleshooting Circuit Leaks

Identifying leaks by comparing volume-time and pressure-time waveforms.

Patient-Ventilator Interface Issues

Problems related to leaks, fit, and trigger sensitivity affecting synchronization.

Optimal Tidal Volume

Setting that adjusts to match the patient's respiratory needs to prevent dyssynchrony.

Loop Graphics

Plots two ventilator parameters against each other to assess work of breathing and dyssynchrony.

Inflection Points in Loops

Abrupt changes in direction on pressure-volume loops indicating optimal PEEP and volume.

Evaluating Lung Compliance

Assessment through pressure-volume loops to determine lung status.

Overdistention

Condition evident in loops marked by a 'bird beak' appearance.

Leak Evaluation on Loops

Identifying leaks when expiratory volume is less than inspiratory volume in flow-volume loops.

Airway Resistance (RAW)

Influence on the pressure needed to deliver a given volume of air during ventilation.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

A mode of ventilation that applies pressure throughout the respiratory cycle without mandatory breaths.