Mechanical Ventilation: Modes, Settings, and Clinical Considerations

Activity Summary

Required reading for all learners: Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes

This article will review the classification of ventilator modes, initial settings, alarm parameters, and key clinical considerations in the use of mechanical ventilation. It will also explore advanced ventilator modes designed to support lung protection and recruitment strategies aimed at optimizing oxygenation and ventilation, as well as common complications associated with mechanical ventilation and approaches to mitigate them.

Objectives

Describe the components of a mechanical ventilation mode and the initial ventilator settings.
Describe the difference between volume control and pressure control breath control variables.
Identify two potential complications of mechanical ventilation.

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

Criteria for Awarding Contact Hours

Learners must complete the entire activity and the associated evaluation AND read Implicit Bias impacts patient outcomes. No partial credit will be awarded.

Accreditation

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider number CEP 1036, for {contactHours} contact hours.

Disclosures

The Nurse Planner has determined that no individuals with the ability to control content of this activity have relevant relationships with ineligible companies.

Activities with pharmacotherapeutic credit are to assist the APRN in fulfilling their education requirements for licensure and certification renewals.

Refund Policy

Continuing Education Activities are nonrefundable.