Background and Identification
Ventilators are responsible for manually moving air in and out of a patient’s lungs. Unlike other breathing assistance devices like a BiPAP or CPAP, a ventilator is invasive, in that a tube is inserted into the patient’s windpipe. Ventilators function by delivering a positive pressure flow of air into the lungs, then allowing the elasticity of the lungs to exhale the air. Modern ventilators usually allow for micro adjustments in pressure and volume for specific patient needs. They are also commonly equipped with a breathing monitor so that oxygen levels and airflow can be carefully monitored.