Ventilator Alarms, Modes, Settings made simple for Nursing NCLEX, RN LPN

Summary

This video covers essential aspects of ventilator settings, alarms, modes, and monitoring for medical students and professionals. It explains the differences between low and high-pressure alarms, the significance of tidal volume, respiratory rate, oxygen concentration (FiO2), PEEP (Positive End-Expiratory Pressure), and pressure support. The video also highlights critical complications like pneumothorax due to high PEEP levels. Additionally, it discusses common ventilator modes like Assist Control (AC) and Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation (SIMV), along with monitoring parameters like minute ventilation and peak inspiratory pressure. The video concludes with tips for NCLEX exam preparation.

Takeaways

• 💡 The blue light on a ventilator displays key numbers and information.
• 🌀 The clear, curly tubing can accumulate 'lung butter,' which needs attention.
• 🔊 There are two main ventilator alarms: low pressure (air leak) and high pressure (blockage).
• 🧠 Low pressure alarms typically indicate tube displacement or air leaks, while high pressure alarms signal blockages like mucus plugs or coughing.
• 💀 High pressure alarms can also indicate serious conditions like pulmonary edema or pneumothorax.
• 📝 Ventilator modes include AC (Assist Control) for full machine control and SIMV (Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation) for patient-assisted breathing.
• 🌊 Tidal Volume (VT) measures the amount of air delivered per breath, typically 500-800 mL.
• 🌬️ Respiratory rate (RR) indicates the number of breaths per minute, typically set between 12-20.
• 💥 Excessive Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) can lead to barotrauma or pneumothorax due to too much pressure.
• 📊 Key monitoring metrics include VE (minute ventilation), PIP (peak inspiratory pressure), and Plateau pressure for assessing lung compliance.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the blue light on the ventilator?

The blue light on the ventilator displays important numbers related to the ventilator's performance and patient monitoring.

What can cause a low pressure or low tidal volume alarm on a ventilator?

A low pressure or low tidal volume alarm is typically caused by a cuff leak, ET tube displacement, or disconnection of the ventilator tubes.

What is the primary cause of a high pressure alarm on a ventilator?

A high pressure alarm is caused by anything that blocks airflow, such as biting the ET tube, tube kinks, excessive airway secretions, or coughing.

What does AC mode on a ventilator stand for and when is it used?

AC stands for Assist Control mode, where the ventilator takes full control of the patient's respiratory rate. It is typically used after CPR or in long-term life support.

What is the function of the SIMV mode in ventilation?

SIMV, or Synchronized Intermittent Mandatory Ventilation, is a weaning mode where the patient primarily controls their breathing, while the machine provides assistance.

What is tidal volume (VT) and what is its normal range?

Tidal volume (VT) is the volume of air delivered with each breath, typically ranging from 500 to 800 mL.

What is PEEP and what are its potential complications?

PEEP stands for Positive End-Expiratory Pressure, which keeps alveoli open to improve gas exchange. Excessive PEEP can lead to complications like barotrauma or pneumothorax.

What is the difference between minute ventilation (VE) and peak inspiratory pressure (PIP)?

Minute ventilation (VE) is the total volume of air delivered per minute, while peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) is the maximum pressure applied during inspiration.

What condition is associated with excessively high levels of PEEP?

Excessively high levels of PEEP can cause barotrauma or pneumothorax, which is the rupture of the lung due to too much pressure.

What is Plateau Pressure (Pplat) and why is it important?

Plateau Pressure (Pplat) indicates lung compliance and helps hold open small airways and alveoli before expiration, making it particularly important in patients with stiff lungs, such as those with ARDS.