Top Uses for Non-Invasive Ventilation

When comparing invasive ventilation (IV) to non-invasive ventilation (NIV), there are many reasons you would use one over the other. NIV comes with many long-term benefits for both the healthcare provider and the patient. This blog will discuss some circumstances when NIV is used as well as why it’s beneficial.

The Rundown

The main difference between non-invasive and invasive ventilation is how air is being delivered to the patient. With invasive ventilation, a tube is physically inserted into their throat (called tracheal intubation) which requires patient sedation. NIV, on the other hand, replaces the tube with a mask that fits tightly around the patient’s nose and mouth. The airway pressure gives a push behind each breath and the patient doesn’t need to be sedated.

Weaning Purposes

NIV has become more popular for use of weaning patients off invasive ventilation. Studies show that when NIV is used for weaning purposes, there are decreased rates of ICU and pneumonia while providing the patient with an overall more comfortable experience.

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Non-invasive ventilation has been shown to be useful for COPD patients in both hospital and home care settings. Plus, COPD patients using NIV have shown reduced mortality and intubation rates in comparison to patients using standard therapy.

Long-term Use

It’s becoming more common for those with chronic respiratory failure to be treated with NIV at home. Invasive ventilation requires hospital staff and 1:1 care, while non-invasive ventilation allows for the patient to be comfortable in their own home.

Benefits

The benefits of NIV are many for patients and healthcare providers alike. Some benefits include:

  • Patient comfort

  • No sedation

  • Can be used in a home care setting

  • Cost-effective for facility

  • Time-efficient for facility

  • Skills for intubation not necessary

  • Therapy can be interrupted for breaks

While NIV isn’t the only form of ventilation, it’s been shown to have long-lasting, important benefits for those with COPD or other respiratory illnesses. We’re here to provide the respiratory products for all your ventilation needs – available for purchase and to rent. To learn more about our products, click here or contact us today.

Elliot Campbell