hengityslaite

Hengityslaite, known in English as a ventilator, is a medical device that assists or completely takes over the function of breathing for a patient. It is primarily used in healthcare settings like hospitals, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs), but also in emergency medical services and for home care. The core purpose of a ventilator is to deliver oxygen to the lungs and remove carbon dioxide from the body when a patient is unable to breathe effectively on their own. This can be due to various reasons, including respiratory failure, lung disease, trauma, surgery, or neurological conditions that impair respiratory muscles.

Ventilators work by mechanically pushing air into the lungs. This can be done in several ways. Some ventilators provide a set volume of air with each breath, while others deliver air until a predetermined pressure is reached within the lungs. Different modes of ventilation exist, allowing healthcare professionals to customize the breathing support based on the patient's specific needs. For instance, some modes support spontaneous breathing attempts by the patient, while others provide full control over the breathing cycle. The device is typically connected to the patient's airway through an endotracheal tube inserted into the windpipe or a tracheostomy tube. Oxygen levels, pressure, and breathing rate can be precisely controlled and monitored to ensure optimal patient outcomes and prevent complications.