Special Considerations in the Nursing Care of Mechanically Ventilated Children

Abstract

Mechanical ventilation is often required to support the recovery of critically ill children. Critical care nurses must understand the unique needs of the children and design supportive care that is sensitive to their changing physiology, developmental stage, and socioemotional needs. This article describes the unique considerations in providing care for mechanically ventilated children. It addresses invasive and noninvasive ventilation and the needs of long-term ventilated children and family in critical care. Supportive nursing care that is aligned with the unique needs of the critically ill child is paramount to ensuring best outcomes for these vulnerable patients.

Keywords: Children; Critical care; Developmental support; Long-term ventilation; Mechanical ventilation; Noninvasive ventilation; Nursing.