How Should Healthcare Providers Approach Selecting the Appropriate Non-invasive Ventilation Device for Their Patients in Post-acute Care Settings?

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Selecting the right non-invasive ventilation (NIV) device for patients in post-acute care requires a thorough understanding of the patient's specific respiratory needs, the device's capabilities, and the setting in which it will be used. Healthcare providers should consider the patient's condition, such as COPD, thoracic restrictive disorders, or obesity hypoventilation syndrome, to match the device's features with the patient's requirements. It's also essential to account for the patient's lifestyle, including their level of activity and mobility. Devices like the POV and NPV cater to specific needs, such as enhanced mobility or reduced pressure sore risk. Collaboration with durable medical equipment suppliers and understanding the available technology are crucial steps in this process.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Non-invasive Ventilation in the Post-Acute Care Setting, presented by Claire Aloan, MS, RRT-NPS, FAARC.