Set it, check it, change it (plateau pressure)

In this episode of our series on respiratory critical care called Every Breath They Take, Dr. Lauria is joined by EM/Critical Care and Flight Physician Brittney Bernardoni as they discuss how to grapple with optimizing lung protective ventilation in ARDS.  

Lung protective ventilation at 6 cc/kg and maintaining plateau pressures of less than 30 cmH2O have been the cornerstones of invasive respiratory support since the findings of the ARMA trial in 2000.  In recent years, some interesting new developments have resulted in changes and improvements in lung protective ventilation strategies.  With a particular focus on ventilator "jiu-jitsu," this episode explores the intricate adjustments required to optimize patient care during ARDS management. From ventilator modes and plateau pressure to the impact of PEEP, FiO2, and mechanical power, this episode equips listeners with actionable knowledge for mastering the art of ventilation. Whether in the field or the ICU, the nuanced approaches discussed in this episode will enhance your understanding of optimizing respiratory support in critical patients. 

Listen to the episode wherever you get your podcasts or directly on our website at https://flightbridgeed.com/explore. While you're there, explore our award-winning courses that have helped thousands of providers clarify and understand the world of critical care transport and pre-hospital medicine.

Takeaways
• Early care in managing respiratory failure in the transport environment is crucial and can significantly impact patient outcomes.
• Lung protective ventilation with low tidal volumes is the foundation of ARDS management.
• The choice of ventilation mode (volume control or pressure control) depends on the clinician's comfort and ability to titrate the settings, but neither has proved superior.
• Permissive hypercapnia is generally well-tolerated in ARDS patients if the pH exceeds 7.15-7.20.
• The initial PEEP setting should be at least eight -  several strategies can be used to guide titration.
• High FiO2 levels can be detrimental to ischemic organs, alveolar patency, and the lung tissue itself.  Aiming for a FiO2 of less than or equal to 60% is important.
• Set, check, and change parameters to ensure optimal ventilation!
• Driving pressure may be an important factor in patient outcomes.
• Mean airway pressure and inspiratory time can improve oxygenation and minimize lung damage

References
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