Home Oxygen Use - Non-Invasive Ventilation

Question 1

When is non-invasive ventilation now used?

Answer 1

In patients with chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure (type 2)
- caused by chest wall deformity, neuromuscular disease, impaired central respiratory drive (i.e. any TYPE 2 RESPIRATORY FAILURE CAUSE)

Question 2

What are the advantages of non-invasive ventilation (home O2 use)?

Answer 2

Avoids tracheal intubation and its associated mortality/morbidity

Question 3

What are the 5 inclusion criteria for non-invasive ventilation?

Answer 3

1) Primary diagnosis of COPD exacerbation (known diagnosis or history/examination consistent with diagnosis)
2) Ability to protect own airway
3) Patient is conscious and cooperative
4) Potential for recovery to quality of life acceptable to the patient
5) Patient’s wishes are considered

Question 4

In what other situation is non-invasive ventilation indicated?

Answer 4

Evidence to support use of non-invasive ventilation in patients who are comatose secondary to COPD-induced hypercapnia in which endotracheal intubation is deemed inappropriate