Ventilators for Noninvasive Ventilation in Adult Acute Care

The use of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is common in adult acute care. As evidence to support the use of NIV has developed, there has been a concurrent proliferation of NIV technology. Efforts have been made to improve patient-ventilator synchrony, monitoring capabilities, and portability of devices used to deliver NIV. The technological enhancements provide clinicians with myriad modes, settings, and capabilities designed to improve patient adherence with NIV. Although this technology is generally superior to that of the past, a great deal of variation exists between devices. Clinicians need to be accustomed to the devices available to them to maximize the potential for clinical improvement and patient tolerance. The purpose of this paper is to review current technology, current literature comparing devices, and various clinical considerations associated with NIV use in adult acute care.