A patient has been supported by a mechanical ventilator using a heat-moisture exchanger for the last 3 days. Suctioning reveals an increase in the amount and tenacity of secretions. Which of the following actions is indicated?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The increase in the amount and tenacity of secretions indicates that the patient may benefit from a large-volume heated humidifier rather than a heat-moisture exchanger or a hygroscopic condenser humidifier. The large-volume heated humidifier is more effective in humidifying the inspired gases and providing hydration to the airways, which can help to loosen and mobilize the secretions. Reassessing the patient's secretions over the next 24 to 48 hours is not sufficient to address the issue of increased secretions, and replacing the hygroscopic condenser humidifier with a new one may not necessarily improve the humidification. Increasing the temperature of the hygroscopic condenser humidifier may help to improve the humidification, but it may not be sufficient to address the increased secretions.

A Patient Has Been Supported by a Mechanical Ventilator Using