Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

07:36
Mechanical Ventilation Boot Camp Curriculum
Published on: March 12, 2018
Pulmonary mechanical ventilation at home: a reasonable and less expensive alternative
Respiratory Care
|December 12, 1982
Summary
Home mechanical ventilation for patients offers a cost-effective alternative to institutional care, saving approximately $2.8 million. A multidisciplinary team approach and psychological evaluation are crucial for successful long-term home care.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Long-term ventilator dependence poses significant financial and ethical challenges.
- Institutional care for ventilator-dependent patients is costly and burdensome.
- Home care presents an alternative to prolonged institutionalization or mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of a home care program for ventilator-dependent patients.
- To assess the cost-effectiveness of home mechanical ventilation compared to institutional care.
- To identify key factors contributing to the success of home ventilation programs.
Main Methods:
- A 38-month observational study of 10 ventilator-dependent patients receiving home care.
- Patients included those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, restrictive chest wall disease, and other neurological disorders.
- A multidisciplinary team approach was employed, including physicians, nurses, therapists, and social workers.
Main Results:
- Home care was provided for 2 to 38 months per patient.
- Estimated cost savings of approximately $2.8 million compared to institutional care.
- Successful discharge and long-term management were achieved for all patients.
Conclusions:
- Home mechanical ventilation is a viable and cost-effective alternative to institutional care.
- A comprehensive, multidisciplinary team and thorough psychological evaluation are essential for program success.
- Increased support from payers and professional societies is needed to establish standards for home care services.
Related Concept Videos
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure
Oxygen therapy has emerged as a significant tool in enhancing the quality of life for patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). While this therapy has principally been studied on patients with significant hypoxemia, this therapeutic approach helps prevent potential organ damage and can be administered in the comfort of one's home.
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue, improving...
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue, improving...
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Oxygen therapy is a pivotal aspect of medical care, particularly for patients with respiratory ailments. Two prominent oxygen-delivering systems include the Venturi mask and the transtracheal oxygen catheter.
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Mechanical Ventilation I: Indication and Settings
Mechanical ventilation is a life-saving technique for managing acute respiratory failure and other respiratory complications. The process involves using a machine known as a ventilator to supply oxygen to the lungs and assist in removing carbon dioxide. It serves as a bridge to long-term mechanical ventilation or a temporary measure until ventilatory support is discontinued. The ventilator can maintain this function for a prolonged period, providing critical support for patients until they can...
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Ventilators are essential medical equipment used to aid patients with respiratory difficulties. Their primary function is to assist or replace spontaneous breathing by providing mechanical ventilation. There are two general classes of mechanical ventilators: negative-pressure and positive-pressure ventilators.
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) are essential methods in respiratory care. These ventilation techniques offer unique benefits for patients with various respiratory conditions, providing adequate support without requiring intubation. Let's explore how each method is crucial in improving patient outcomes and enhancing respiratory therapy.
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Ventilatory Modes
Mechanical ventilators are life-saving devices that support or replace spontaneous breathing. They deliver breaths to patients through varying methods known as ventilator modes. Understanding these modes is critical for healthcare providers managing patients with respiratory failure.
There are three ventilatory modes: full support, partial support, and spontaneous. These are described below.
Full Support Modes
Full support modes include controlled mechanical ventilation, continuous mandatory...
There are three ventilatory modes: full support, partial support, and spontaneous. These are described below.
Full Support Modes
Full support modes include controlled mechanical ventilation, continuous mandatory...

