Initiation of Mechanical Ventilation in Patients with Decompensated Respiratory Failure

Publication date: October 2017 Source:Hospital Medicine Clinics, Volume 6, Issue 4 Author(s): Eric D. Signoff, Jason Y. Adams, Brooks T. KuhnTeaser The role of the Hospitalist in the management of patients with acute respiratory failure is expanding. Acute respiratory failure is inherently unstable, and therefore requires frequent assessment, intervention, and reassessment. Hospitalists possess the knowledge and skills to manage heart failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and the other causes leading to respiratory failure and can meet the dynamic needs of these patients. Hospitalists should understand the indications and benefits of mechanical ventilation as well as the inherent and preventable risks from the time of endotracheal intubation to liberation from the ventilator.
Source: Hospital Medicine Clinics - Category: Internal Medicine Source Type: research