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SurgCritCare
Resource Index

reference

Respiratory / Vent

Ventilator basics, oxygenation, pulmonary mechanics, spontaneous breathing trials, and weaning readiness.

Attribution
SurgCritCare handbook
Updated
5/29/2026
Source
/respiratory-vent

Ventilator basics

Track mode, tidal volume, respiratory rate, FiO2, PEEP, plateau pressure, driving pressure, and synchrony.

  • Use lung-protective thinking.
  • Look for reversible causes of dyssynchrony.
  • Trend P/F ratio and mechanics.

Liberation

Assess readiness for spontaneous breathing trials and extubation with clinical context, not numbers alone.

  • Minimize sedation first.
  • Confirm cough and secretion burden.
  • Plan post-extubation support.
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