Non-invasive ventilation in acute respiratory failure

Noninvasive PPV has been employed for decades in patients with chronic respiratory failure. Increasing use in patients with acute respiratory failure is a more recent phenomenon, mainly because of advances in noninvasive interfaces and ventilator modes. Noninvasive PPV delivered by nasal or oronasal mask has been demonstrated to reduce the need for endotracheal intubation, decrease lengths of stay in the ICU and hospital, and possibly reduce mortality. In the acute care setting, evidence now demonstrates the efficacy of noninvasive PPV for acute exacerbations of COPD, pulmonary edema, pulmonary contusions, and acute respiratory failure in patients who decline or who are not believed to be candidates for…

• IC
  Intensive Care Society