What are the side effects of being on a ventilator 2024?
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Abigail Wilson
Studied at the University of Queensland, Lives in Brisbane, Australia.
As a respiratory therapist with extensive experience in critical care, I have witnessed the life-saving capabilities of ventilators. However, it is important to acknowledge that there are potential side effects associated with mechanical ventilation. These side effects can range from mild to severe and can impact a patient's recovery process. Here are some of the side effects that patients may experience while on a ventilator:
1. Hemodynamic instability: Mechanical ventilation can affect a patient's blood pressure and heart rate, especially if the patient is not adequately sedated or if the ventilator settings are not properly adjusted.
2. Cough suppression: The use of sedatives and the presence of a ventilator tube can suppress a patient's natural cough reflex, which is important for clearing secretions from the airways.
3. Varying Vt: The volume of air delivered with each breath (tidal volume, or Vt) can be different from the patient's natural breathing pattern, which may lead to lung injury or other complications if not carefully managed.
4. Inhibition of normal patient movement: Being on a ventilator often requires the patient to be immobilized, which can lead to muscle atrophy and weakness.
5. Aspiration: There is a risk of aspiration, where stomach contents can enter the lungs, especially if the patient's swallowing reflex is impaired.
6. Accelerated deconditioning: Prolonged bed rest and lack of physical activity can lead to rapid muscle and bone loss, as well as cardiovascular deconditioning.
7.
Prolonged time on mechanical ventilation: The longer a patient is on a ventilator, the more likely they are to develop complications such as ventilator-associated pneumonia.
8. **Promotes posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)**: The experience of being intubated and on a ventilator can be traumatic, leading to psychological distress and potentially PTSD after discharge.
It is crucial for healthcare providers to monitor patients closely and adjust ventilator settings and sedation levels as needed to minimize these side effects. Additionally, early mobilization and physical therapy can help to mitigate some of the physical deconditioning effects.
2024-06-28 21:31:56
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Studied at Stanford University, Lives in Palo Alto, CA
Some of the side effects of heavy sedation include:Hemodynamic instability.Cough suppression.Varying Vt.Inhibition of normal patient movement.Aspiration.Accelerated deconditioning.Prolonged time on mechanical ventilation.Promotes posttraumatic stress disorder.
2023-06-03 12:05:43

Amelia Kim
QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Some of the side effects of heavy sedation include:Hemodynamic instability.Cough suppression.Varying Vt.Inhibition of normal patient movement.Aspiration.Accelerated deconditioning.Prolonged time on mechanical ventilation.Promotes posttraumatic stress disorder.