POTENTIAL PROBLEMS OF PATIENT ON MECHANICAL VENRILATION
Scenario : John was admitted to the ICU with difficulty breathing .He was intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation. Potential problems of the patient on mechanical ventilation: 1. Anxiety related to intubation. Typically, medication to decrease anxiety is ordered by the doctor. 2. Impaired gas exchange. Maintaining a patent airway is very important. Checking breath sounds, suctioning secretions and troubleshooting alarms, are actions taken. 3. Self extubation may occur, so for this reason, the doctor may order restraints or some other option to prevent this happening. 4. Water might collect in the tubing of the ventilator. Measures to clear the tubing is usually done. Patient and family education Patient and family education will help to decrease anxiety. Patient restraints may be necessary to prevent self extubation.