1996 OPEN FORUM Abstracts
Mechanical Ventilator Strategies in Congenital Heart Disease - A Critical Thinking Approach
Barbara G. Wilson, MEd RRT Wednesday, November 6, 1996
Developing mechanical ventilator strategies for infants and children with congenital heart disease (CHD) requires a thorough understanding of cardiorespiratory performance, cardiac anatomy and physiology, the effects of ventilatory interventions on the cardiorespiratory system and critical thinking skills. General ventilatory strategies focused on improving cardiovascular performance and oxygen delivery will be presented. Specific strategies for treating inadequate oxygen as a result of intra-cardiac shunting, intrapulmonary shunting or alveolar hypoventilation will also be presented. Emphasis will be placed on assessment of the patient with CHD and inadequate oxygen delivery and development of a ventilatory management strategy to correct the pathophysiologic state within the context of a multi-disciplinary care plan.