Question
What are the key evidence-based strategies for mechanical ventilation in ARDS patients?
Answer
The primary evidence-based strategy for mechanical ventilation in ARDS patients is to use a low tidal volume approach, maintaining the tidal volume at about 4-6 ml/kg of predicted body weight. Additionally, it is crucial to keep plateau pressures below 30 cm H2O to minimize further lung injury. High PEEP, alveolar recruitment maneuvers, and prone positioning are also recommended as rescue therapies for severe hypoxemia. These strategies are designed to protect the lungs from additional damage while ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and What You Should Know, presented by Tim Gilmore, PhD, RRT, RRT-ACCS, RRT-NPS, CPFT, AE-C.