Hengitysapu

Hengitysapu refers to any method or device used to assist or support an individual's breathing. This can range from simple techniques to complex medical equipment, and its application is vital in various medical emergencies and chronic conditions affecting the respiratory system.

In emergency situations, such as cardiac arrest or severe choking, immediate manual ventilation might be employed. This includes techniques like mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or using a bag-valve-mask (BVM), often referred to as a "ambu bag." These methods deliver oxygenated air directly into the lungs to maintain oxygenation until more advanced support can be established.

For individuals with chronic respiratory diseases like COPD or asthma, or those recovering from surgery or illness, less invasive forms of breathing support may be used. This can involve supplemental oxygen delivered via nasal cannulas or face masks. Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, including CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) and BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure), is another common form of assisted breathing. These therapies use a machine to deliver pressurized air through a mask, keeping the airways open and making breathing easier.

Mechanical ventilation represents the most advanced form of respiratory support, where a machine (ventilator) takes over or assists with the breathing process entirely. This is typically used for patients who are unable to breathe adequately on their own, often due to severe illness, injury, or during anesthesia. The ventilator can be connected invasively through an endotracheal tube or tracheostomy, or non-invasively through a mask. The goal of all forms of hengitysapu is to ensure adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal, thereby supporting vital bodily functions.