Mechanical ventilation basics
Structured condition card with NCLEX priority cues and nursing action focus.
Respiratoryhigh priorityneeds review
Mechanical ventilation basics
Etiology / Pathophysiology
- Ventilator supports oxygenation and ventilation when the client cannot maintain them.
- Positive pressure moves air into lungs but can affect hemodynamics and lung tissue.
Medications
| Class | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Benzodiazepines | May be used for sedation in selected ventilated clients. |
Nursing actions
- Assess airway security, breath sounds, chest rise, alarms, and oxygenation.
- If distress occurs, assess the client first, then equipment.
- Use oral care, HOB elevation, suctioning as indicated, and sedation safety.
Complications
- Ventilator-associated pneumonia
- Barotrauma
- Decreased cardiac output
- Accidental extubation
NCLEX cues
- High pressure alarm can mean obstruction/coughing/kink.
- Low pressure alarm can mean leak/disconnection.
Memory hooks
- Vent alarm: look at the patient first.
Labs / Diagnostics
- Trend assessment findings and ordered diagnostics; verify exact values with school source material.
Review notes
- Session-derived study seed. Verify against school materials, ATI/NCLEX review sources, current orders, and facility policy before relying on details.