Page 153 - AACN Essentials of Critical-Care Nursing Pocket Handbook, Second Edition

140
Algorithm for Management of Ventilator Alarms and/or Development of Acute

PROBLEMS:
• Signs/symptoms of respiratory distress
• Sudden change in clinical condition
• Ventilator alarm
• Abnormal ventilator function

Is the patient in
respiratory distress?
or
hemodynamic
instability?
NO YES
Check ventilator to • Remove patient from
determine if problem exists ventilator and ventilate
manually with 100% O 2
• Perform rapid exam,
with CP emphasis

Does the
condition resolve?
YES • Verify O 2 delivery
NO
Respiratory Distress • Suction to remove
Check ventilator to
appropriate
determine if problem exists
secretions and verify
airway patency
• Ascultate chest
• Check vasoactive
drips

5.12