Lung protective mechanical ventilators are placed on patients with severe respiratory failure due to COVID-19 induced ARDS to prevent barotrauma. However,  because the device is invasive, the patient is much more prone to secondary bacterial infection that can exacerbate critical conditions in patients. Therefore, appropriate antibiotics are usually taken while on the ventilator. To enhance patient-ventilator synchrony, sedation is generally required, although neuromuscular blockade is not generally recommended. 

Invasive Ventilators for COVID-19

Noninvasive ventilators are generally discouraged for critically ill patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19. Non-invasive positive-pressure ventilation increases the risk of droplet spread due to inappropriate mask fitting. 
They are based on the bag valve mask design based on manual tidal volume adjusted for patient use.

Noninvasive Ventilators for COVID-19

There are two major types of medical ventilators:

- invasive

- noninvasive

The type of ventilator to be used depends on the condition of the patient. Each type has both positive and negative side effects. 


Smith College

Ventilators supply air/oxygen mixture to coronavirus patients suffering from various levels of lung damage due to COVID-19. Existing ventilators vary in their designs and uses.

Medical Ventilators for COVID-19

Khan NA, Akhtar J. Respiratory and ventilator management of COVID-19. J Pak Med Assoc. 2020;70(Suppl 3)(5):S60-S63. doi:10.5455/JPMA.23

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