Hazards of mechanical ventilation--therapeutic implications

Abstract

The side effects and adverse reactions associated with the use of positive pressure volume cycle ventilators are described with a focus on information the pharmacist needs to know to monitor patient drug therapy. Mechanical ventilation is discussed with regard to pulmonary and blood gases, infections, cardiovascular effects, renal-fluid status, metabolic considerations, central nervous system effects, gastrointestinal effects, musculo-skeletal reactions, discontinuance of mechanical ventilation and the use of inhalation drugs.