The therapist is conducting a ventilator check for a neonate and makes the following notations on the ventilator flow sheet:
$\bullet$ PEEP: 5 cm H₂O
$\bullet$ Peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) : 25 cm H₂O
$\bullet$ Mandatory rate: 15 breaths per minute
$\bullet$ FiO₂: 0.35
On the basis of these observations, what should the therapist recommend for this neonate?

Question

The therapist is conducting a ventilator check for a neonate and makes the following notations on the ventilator flow sheet:

\bullet

PEEP: 5 cm H₂O

\bullet

Peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) : 25 cm H₂O

\bullet

Mandatory rate: 15 breaths per minute

\bullet

FiO₂: 0.35
On the basis of these observations, what should the therapist recommend for this neonate?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is difficult to define at exactly what point during mechanical ventilation the weaning process should begin; however, most would agree that ideally it is after significant resolution or reversal of the pathologic condition for which it was initiated. Before weaning begins, the patient's condition should be stable and the patient should be receiving adequate nourishment and be able to breathe spontaneously and maintain a clinically acceptable PaCO₂. The ventilator should be on acceptable settings: usually PEEP less than 8 cm H₂O; peak pressure less than 30 cm H₂O; ventilator rate less than 20 breaths per minute for a neonate, 15 breaths per minute for an infant/toddler, and 10 breaths per minute for a child or adolescent; and FiO₂ less than 0.4 to 0.5.

The Therapist Is Conducting a Ventilator Check for a Neonate ∙\bullet∙

The Therapist Is Conducting a Ventilator Check for a Neonate $\bullet$