GE Healthcare Non Invasive Ventilation (NIV) For the Engström Ventilator - Manual (Page 5)

COPD is currently the fourth leading cause of
death in the world, and further increases in the
prevalence and mortality of the disease can be
predicted in the coming decades.
1
NIV has gained the dignity of first line intervention
for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pul-
monary disease (COPD), assuring reduction of the
intubation rate, rate of infection and mortality.
2
One of the major conceptual advantages to
NIV (both CPAP and BIPAP) is that the need for
endotracheal intubation is avoided. This, in turn,
should translate into better comfort (and, thus,
less sedation) as well as a reduced risk of ventilator-
associated pneumonia (VAP) and tracheal injury.
4,3
Relief
The implimentation of NIV plays an important role in the treatment
of patients suffering from impending respiratory failure, supporting
patients though a critical time. NIV might also facilitate endotracheal
tube removal by supplying respiratory support in those who still need
it (ie, failing the first weaning step), but who can protect their airways
and clear secretions (ie, succeeding the second weaning step).
4,5
The possible benefits of NIV on respiratory function are improved
oxygenation and alveolar ventilation and reduced work of breathing.
6
This offers clinicians time to stabilize a patient without the require-
ment of the placement of an artificial airway.
Relax
With the implementation of NIV, a patient's spontaneous ventilation
is supported. As the patient initiates a breath, a level of support is
delivered. This level of support may decrease the work of breathing
of the patient, easing the patient’s respiratory effort. The clinician
can be guaranteed a minimal level of support through the use of a
minimal rate requirement.
Recovery
Patients can be weaned from the support of NIV, and then monitored
for signs of stabilization or future impending ventilatory failure.
This can be achieved through the use of the Monitoring mode and
CO
2
analysis offered with the Engström Carestation ® . In the event
the patient is not able to wean, or requires intubation, the Engström
can quickly be set up to deliver invasive ventilation.