Ventilator Modes Explained: AC, SIMV, and Pressure Support

Ventilator mode names vary, but the reasoning starts with the targeted variable, breath sequence, and the patient's work of breathing. This episode breaks down volume-targeted and pressure-targeted breaths, assist-control, SIMV, pressure support, peak versus plateau pressure, and the hemodynamic effects of positive-pressure ventilation.

RESOURCES FOR THIS EPISODE:

Mechanical Ventilation Modes Cheat Sheet

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IN THIS EPISODE:

Volume-targeted versus pressure-targeted breathsAssist-control, SIMV, and pressure supportPeak pressure versus plateau pressureHow PEEP and positive pressure affect hemodynamics