There are two types of ventilators – mechanical and electric. Mechanical ventilators are designed to help patients breathe. They have been used to treat many conditions, including brain injury, stroke and pneumonia. Electrical ventilators work by pumping air through a tube into the patient’s lungs. These machines help to keep patients alive while they are in the hospital. However, they pose a serious safety risk. Here is a look at the history of ventilators.
When a patient is unable to breathe on their own, a mechanical ventilator is a life-saving device. It helps the patient breathe by removing harmful waste gases, such as carbon dioxide. However, complications can arise. The ventilator may not be the only cause of complications. Some complications can result from the device itself, but other conditions can worsen if the patient remains on it for days. Ventilators are designed to provide the patient with a constant flow of oxygen and to prevent complications.
The air that enters the patient’s lungs is measured by medical staff. The staff adjusts the speed and type of air. Too much oxygen can cause tissue damage, which is known as ventilator-associated lung injury. It is important to check the trach cuff periodically to avoid causing unnecessary alarms. Ventilators may be connected to a machine that is running when the patient is asleep. A ventilator can also cause problems with the patient’s heart and blood pressure.