What ventilator mode is most suitable for a patient with quadriplegia that requires full support?

What ventilator mode is most suitable for a patient with quadriplegia that requires full support?

• A. VC-CMV
• B. Pressure support
• C. APRV
• D. Bi-level PAP

Answer: (A)

The volume-controlled continuous mandatory ventilation (VC-CMV) mode is most suitable for a patient with quadriplegia requiring full support because it allows for the delivery of a predetermined tidal volume with each breath. This mode is particularly beneficial for patients who have compromised respiratory muscle function, as it ensures that they receive the necessary ventilation without exerting effort. Since patients with quadriplegia often experience significant weakness or paralysis of the respiratory muscles, the fully automated support provided by VC-CMV helps to maintain adequate ventilation and oxygenation effectively. In this mode, the ventilator initiates breaths at set intervals, providing consistent respiratory support, and can also respond to spontaneous breathing if the patient has some capability. The stability and predictability of the tidal volume delivered are crucial for maintaining alveolar ventilation and preventing complications such as atelectasis or hypercapnia in cases of diminished respiratory strength.

The volume-controlled continuous mandatory ventilation (VC-CMV) mode is most suitable for a patient with quadriplegia requiring full support because it allows for the delivery of a predetermined tidal volume with each breath. This mode is particularly beneficial for patients who have compromised respiratory muscle function, as it ensures that they receive the necessary ventilation without exerting effort. Since patients with quadriplegia often experience significant weakness or paralysis of the respiratory muscles, the fully automated support provided by VC-CMV helps to maintain adequate ventilation and oxygenation effectively.

In this mode, the ventilator initiates breaths at set intervals, providing consistent respiratory support, and can also respond to spontaneous breathing if the patient has some capability. The stability and predictability of the tidal volume delivered are crucial for maintaining alveolar ventilation and preventing complications such as atelectasis or hypercapnia in cases of diminished respiratory strength.