Saturday, November 16, 2013

Adaptive Pressure Control Ventilation Video Series




After finishing my videos on the mathematical models of PC-CMV, I decided to create videos on Adaptive Pressure Control (APC) ventilation.

These videos compare and contrast between APC, VC, & PC during changes in pulmonary dynamics & various patient conditions/ interactions.

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Incorporating Proportional Assist into Ventilator Protocols

Image 1: PAV+ Work of Breathing bar. 


PAV+ may be used for the initial mode of ventilation during the acute phase of mechanical ventilation. However, from my experience I have had the most success and efficiency with PAV+ utilizing the mode to rest patients after a failed spontaneous breathing trial. After reviewing the literature it is still unclear the best way to wean or liberate a patient from PAV+. However, a traditional T-piece trail has been supported by many peer reviewed journals, so at my institution we still use a 30 minute to one hour T-Piece trial to screen patients for extubation.
How to incorporate PAV+

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

The Fastest Ambulance on TED


Whats in your pockets? Are you a Prepper or Macgyver?

In a previous post (The RT Hoarder) I mention that I carry very little on me when I'm at work. 
Yes, I believe in being prepared, however I try to practice the "Macgyver" philosophy [1], versus the "Dooms Day Prepper" mentality [2].

This post presents my Everyday Carry (EDC) [3] from when I first started in the field of respiratory therapy to what I carry now. I will describe "what is in my pockets" and why, also notice the progression throughout the years.

What items do I get rid of & what do I always need to practice the profession?

EDC as a RT student & new graduate.