The first article in our module on Mechanical Ventilation takes an interesting step back and looks at the history and development of ventilators. This article is interesting as well as practical, and gives the RT a new perspective on the tools that are currently available. As you review this article, watch out for these special points of emphasis:
- The move away from negative pressure ventilation
- Significant features of the first and second generation ventilators
- Desirable features of new ventilator modes
- Situations where ventilator alarms may be disregarded