Mechanical Ventilation Basics

Ventilation

Lung-protective ventilation reduces mortality.

Initial settings

  • VT 6 mL/kg PBW
  • RR 12-20
  • PEEP 5
  • FiO2 to SpO2 92-96%
  • Plateau pressure <30 cmH2O

ARDS

  • VT 4-6 mL/kg PBW, Pplat <30, driving pressure <15
  • Higher PEEP table for moderate-severe
  • Prone for P/F <150

Obstructive (asthma/COPD)

  • Low RR (8-10), long expiratory time
  • Watch dynamic hyperinflation (intrinsic PEEP)

Pearls

  • Check plateau pressure routinely
  • Wean via daily SBT once cause reversing

Educational support only — follow institutional ICU protocols.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds