What is important to know when choosing a ventilator for the intensive care unit?

How does the ventilator work?

The ventilator is composed of several main components: a compressor, sensors, electronic circuits, and a valve system. During operation, the device delivers a gas mixture with the required oxygen concentration into the patient's lungs under pressure. Its functioning follows a specific cycle, where inspiration and expiration are regulated according to flow, volume, air pressure, and specific time parameters. The inspiration stage involves controlled ventilation, while instinctive breathing is supported during the remaining time.

Connecting ventilator equipment can be performed using either invasive or non-invasive methods. Non-invasive methods involve supplying air through a tube and withdrawing it via a mask. Invasive methods require the use of an intubation tube, which is inserted into the tracheostomy or airway.

The main types of ventilators

High-tech ventilator equipment is classified based on several criteria. According to the age of the patient, ventilators are divided into the following groups: I-III, IV, and V. Groups I-III are designed for adults and children over six years old, while Group IV is intended for children aged 1 to 6 years. V are for children and newborns up to 1 year old. Physiological features of the organism at different ages do not allow the use of the same device.

Based on the method used to activate the ventilator, the equipment is categorized by different types of drives:

1. Electric. Devices with an external power source, provide obtaining and systematization of data on the ventilation of the patient's lungs, are successfully used in medical institutions, ambulances, at home.

2. Pneumatic. The devices are autonomous, independent of an external power source, more often used in hospitals. As a power source is a compressed gas mixture.

3. Mechanical. The device is actuated manually, used as a backup.

4. Combined. Injection of air into the lungs is carried out by an external source of compressed gas, and control — from electricity.

Ventilation devices are classified into two groups: general-purpose and special-purpose. General-purpose devices are used in intensive care units, anesthesiology departments, intensive care wards, and postoperative wards for both long-term and short-term respiratory support. Special-purpose devices are designed for emergency care, neonatal resuscitation, anesthesia administration, and bronchoscopic surgery.

Ventilators are stationary and mobile. Before making a choice of equipment it is important to analyze the operating conditions.

Additional functions that can be useful

Modern ventilator models can synchronize with the patient’s condition and adjust the air supply accordingly. Advanced devices are equipped with alarms that activate in the event of malfunctions or uncontrolled situations. Additional features of these devices include:

• periodic lung inflation to prevent atelectasis — SIGH;

• pause on inhalation or exhalation for diagnostics and respiratory procedures;

• return of apnea ventilation in automatic mode;

• medication nebulization system;

• emergency oxygen supply with regulated enrichment;

• PV-tool lung protection tool with recording, analysis of results;

• additional pressure monitoring;

• visualization of respiratory activity;

• endotracheal tube resistance compensation;

• self-testing when switched on.

When selecting equipment, it's crucial to consider the key adjustable parameters: oxygen concentration, ventilation rate, pressure, and the volume of the breathing mixture. Modern ventilators come with multiple specialized modes. Advanced models are equipped with intelligent control systems that assess the patient’s condition and automatically adjust to the most appropriate operational method.

The function of backup ventilation is an autonomous battery, which is built into the ventilator. When the main power source is disconnected, the ventilator provides backup power for at least one more hour. This feature ensures patient safety during transportation between units, minimizing risk in case of power failure. A longer autonomy period increases the overall safety of the equipment.

Choosing a ventilator

Artificial ventilation of the lungs may be needed at any time. Therefore, leading manufacturers offer models of equipment that are convenient to use in different conditions. When selecting the device, one should be guided by the peculiarities of its application. Devices for ventilation in the intensive care unit are often stationary. For ambulances and rescue teams, it is better to choose portable versions. When choosing a device, attention should be paid to the key characteristics:

• noise level;

• humidifier equipment;

• dimensions, weight;

• battery capacity;

• convenience of transportation;

• memory, LCD display;

• signal system perfection;

• compliance with standards and regulations.

When selecting equipment for the department, it is important to evaluate the ventilation parameters and ease of operation from all sides. One of the main selection criteria is the compressor model. Oil-free options offer compactness, quietness, and lightness.

The presence of a signal sensor contributes to the notification of a breach of pressure, a decrease in the temperature of the gas mixture, failures in the power supply. Some models of ventilators in the absence of a response from medical personnel for 40 seconds increase the volume of the signal. Thanks to this, specialists provide timely assistance and save the lives of patients.

A separate point that should be highlighted is the choice of apparatus for newborns. Neonatal equipment should include standard ventilation modes: automatic and spontaneous, along with additional settings. A mechanism with periodic inflation is essential for infants whose lungs have not yet opened, as it offers a chance for survival. Triggered, forced, controlled, synchronized intermittent, and gas mixing modes ensure the high efficiency of neonatal units. High-frequency ventilation is employed for severe pulmonary dysfunction in neonates.

Financial aspects

The cost of ventilators directly depends on the functions and technological features of the model. The more advanced and versatile the device, the higher the price. An enhanced device allows treatment of a wide range of diseases in patients of different age groups. With improved features, the medical institution gains necessary tools and flexible options for applying new lung protection strategies. Before purchasing, it is important to compare the cost with the equipment’s capabilities and consider the hospital's needs and budget to choose the best value for money.

Conclusion

Thanks to artificial ventilation, healthcare professionals save thousands of lives every day. No intensive care unit can operate without a ventilator. Most intensive care wards are equipped with several devices to help prevent respiratory failure in patients. The timely and effective ventilation of the lungs directly affects the life and health of the patient. Therefore, the selection of ventilators must be approached with great care and responsibility. Bimedis Marketplace offers a wide range of reliable ventilators, anesthesia/resuscitation equipment at a favorable price. Proven suppliers, vendors, manufacturers, search engine, manager assistance help you to choose the best device options that meet your requirements and budget.