Mechanical ventilation

Question 1

Why is mechanical ventilation used

Answer 1

Because if a person is not able to ventilate their lungs themselves they can use a mechanical ventilator to help them.

Question 2

How is a mechanical ventilator controlled

Answer 2

Mechanical ventilators require power and are controlled by a computer.

Question 3

How does a mechanical ventilator work? 3 steps

Answer 3

Air is pumped into the patients’ trachea through an endotracheal tube which is inserted through the skin straight into the trachea.

This increases the pressure allowing air to flow into the airways.

The pressure then drops to zero.