Ventilator Setup (Overview)

ICU · ICU · 10–20 min

Initial ventilator settings for the intubated patient.

Indications

  • • Mechanical ventilation initiation

Equipment

  • • Ventilator
  • • Circuit
  • • HME filter
  • • ETT

Positioning

  • • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • • Explain risks & complications
  • • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • • Hand hygiene
  • • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • • Aseptic technique
  • • Sharps safety
  • • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/7)

Tap to complete

Volume AC or PC-AC; PS if weaning.

Immediate complications

  • ⚠ Barotrauma
  • ⚠ Hypotension

Delayed complications

  • • VAP
  • • Ventilator-induced lung injury

Recognition

  • • High plateau
  • • Desat

Initial management

  • • Reduce Vt; PEEP; sedation

Prevention

  • • Lung-protective ventilation
  • • VAP bundle

Post-procedure observation

  • • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • • Site inspection
  • • Symptom review

Documentation

  • • Procedure note
  • • Consent
  • • Findings

Patient instructions

  • • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds