Microprocessor-controlled third-generation critical care ventilators

We evaluated five microprocessor-controlled critical care ventilators from five manufacturers. We rated three units Acceptable and two units Conditionally Acceptable, basing our ratings primarily on performance, safety, monitoring features, specific deficiencies, and ergonomic and human factors design. Because of differences in clinical practice and patient populations, we recommend that purchasing decisions be based on clinical trials conducted on the full range of patients for whom the ventilator will likely be used.