This lecture has two sections. Section One will discuss the pathophysiology of chronic respiratory failure. This will be a basis to understand the various conditions requiring long term mechanical ventilation that children may have. The last part of section one is a brief discussion of the physiology of ventilation and an explanation of some of the terms and concepts used regarding ventilation. This is only a very brief overview of the complex process of ventilation. It is important to understand these concepts and why a child requires mechanical ventilation to provide optimal care for these children.
Section Two will cover the components of mechanical ventilation including how some of the currently available ventilators function and circuits that can be used. Basic concepts related to ventilation will then be discussed. There are a variety of modes of ventilation that will be explained. Section Two will conclude with a discussion about ventilator alarms and how to trouble shoot common problems. We cannot cover every ventilator that is available, but the concepts discussed are common to all mechanical ventilators.
Note: the lecture notes are available in printable format in the Resources section.