ventilators

Question 1

High pressures alarms are always triggered by

Answer 1

increased resistance to air flow. Look for obstructions, i.e.,
• Kinks in tubing … Solution: unkink the tube
• Condensed water in the dependent tube … Solution: empty it
• Mucus plugs … Solution: Ask pt to turn, cough, deep breathe; or suction the tubing PRN

Question 2

What is the appropriate order to address high pressure alarm in a mechanical ventilator?

Answer 2

• (1) Unkink. (2) Empty

water out of tubing. (3) turn pt, ask pt to cough or deeply breathe, and (4) suction

Question 3

Low pressures alarms are always triggered by

Answer 3

Decrease in resistance. This can be caused by
• Main tubing disconnection
• O2 sensor tube disconnection
• In both cases, reconnect the disconnected tubing unless tube is on floor … Bag pt and call
Respiratory Therapist

Question 4

Setting is too high … Pt is

Answer 4

overventilated

o Respiratory Alkalosis … Panting

Question 5

• Setting is too low … Pt is

Answer 5

underventilated

o Respiratory Acidosis … Pt is retaining CO2

Question 6

If pt were in ____________, he should be ready to be weaned off

Answer 6

respiratory alkalosis (overventilated)