Mechanical ventilators ; Pediatric intensive care units ; Respiratory insufficiency
Abstract
Invasive mechanical ventilation is a crucial strategy for saving the lives of patients with acute or chronic respiratory failure, even in children. Physicians should be capable of establishing the initial settings for mechanical ventilation when faced with a patient in need. This review paper offers practical guidance on the initial settings of pediatric mechanical ventilation, covering indications for mechanical ventilation; initial settings such as basic modes, peak inspiratory pressure or tidal volume, respiratory rate, inspiratory time or ratio, fraction of inspired oxygen, positive end-expiratory pressure, and trigger; and the early monitoring strategy after the initial settings. This information is expected to be beneficial for physicians, particularly residents and early-career pediatric practitioners.