Mechanical Ventilation Waveforms and Loops: A Beginner’s Approach

Activity Summary

Mechanical ventilation is a core critical care intervention; consequently, critical care nurses need to possess competence in ventilator waveform analysis as an integral part of their nursing care. Ventilator waveforms and loops can be used by the nurse to assess pulmonary status and lung compliance and to evaluate interventions. This beginner’s level, interactive session uses real-time patient simulation to introduce core concepts associated with normal and abnormal waveforms and loops.

Objectives

Evaluate the role of waveforms and loops associated with ventilation and respiratory failure of the critically ill patient.
Outline the components, and their clinical significance, of normal and abnormal waveforms and loops.
List patient-care considerations and safety issues associated with monitoring ventilator waveforms and loops.

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.