Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2025

A Novel Rescue Technique for Difficult Intubation and Difficult Ventilation
Published on: January 17, 2011
Opportunities to Improve Care Processes for Ventilator-Dependent Children: A Single-Center Study
Carolyn Dress1, Lisa M Vaughn2,3,4, Jonelle Prideaux4
1Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Objective:
Children with chronic ventilator dependence are a complex and heterogeneous population with unique needs. We sought input from parents, clinicians, and hospital staff to identify opportunities for process improvement during hospitalization and discharge preparation.
Methods:
We conducted a qualitative study at a large referral center for children with chronic ventilator dependence. Participants included parents of children with chronic ventilator dependence, physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and support staff. Two group-level assessment (GLA) sessions occurred, followed by one-on-one semistructured interviews. Thematic analysis identified areas for process improvements in the care of children with chronic ventilator dependence.
Results:
A total of 27 individuals participated in 2 GLA sessions followed by 9 interviews. Potential areas for process improvements included (1) acknowledging and addressing limited resources for children with long-term mechanical ventilation dependence; (2) advancing beyond a "one-size-fits-most" care model; (3) placing the patient and family at the center of care; and (4) improving support for families and staff. Families persistently noted a traumatic component of their experiences through hospitalizations and learning to care for a child with chronic ventilator dependence.
Conclusions:
There are multiple opportunities for process improvement during the hospitalization of children with chronic ventilator dependence. Protocols and practices that support efficient and safe care, such as education before discharge, may require modifications to better meet family needs, address system shortcomings, and mitigate trauma.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
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 I: Indication and Settings
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation...
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
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,...
Ventilatory Modes
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...
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:

