Healthy Notes

  Modes of Ventilator: Complete Guide for Nurses and Paramedics Introduction Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving technique that provides respiratory support to patients who are unable to breathe adequately on their own. Ventilators deliver oxygen and remove carbon dioxide by generating positive pressure in the lungs. The mode of ventilation refers to how the ventilator assists the patient's breathing — specifically, how breaths are initiated, controlled, and cycled. Understanding ventilator modes is essential for nurses, respiratory therapists, paramedics, and critical care personnel. Basic Components of Ventilator Settings Before diving into ventilator modes, here are some key terms: Trigger : What initiates a breath — can be time (machine) or patient effort. Limit : The parameter that controls gas delivery (pressure or volume). Cycle : What ends the inspiratory phase (time, volume, or flow). PEEP (Positive End Expiratory Pressure) : Pressure maintained in ...