Enhanced capabilities of current ICU ventilators: do they really benefit patients?

The current-generation mechanical ventilators are certainly enhanced in performance, style, and cost. Many of these enhancements appear to benefit both the patient (eg, reduced work of breathing, wider range of operation) and the hospital (eg, reduced maintenance costs). Although vast areas for refinements remain, my plea is that efforts be made to learn about and take advantage of the current technology, before embarking upon new technology. As we have learned, you have to have the right tool for the right job. Unfortunately, it's not the right tool, if you don't know how to use it.