A variety of mechanical ventilators are currently in use. A 1999 study reported that mechanical ventilators that use small breaths of air reduced mortality rates by 25% compared to those that required larger breaths.
Unfortunately, most patients have a low tolerance for intubation and the tubes are often removed prematurely because of discomfort. Painkillers, sedatives, or even muscle relaxants may be needed. There are also a number of complications that cause early removal:
Removing them too early produces adverse events in nearly all such patients. A study found that patients may be able to go off the ventilator more quickly and safely if they are screened daily and encouraged to breathe spontaneously as soon as possible.
.gif)
