Pediatric Tracheostomy and Ventilator Care
Introduction

About this topic

Doctor with childWelcome to oxygenation and manual ventilation.  This lesson will present concepts and issues related to the function of the respiratory system, use of supplemental oxygen system, oximeter, and the manual resuscitation bag

Knowledge of the function of the respiratory system, including ventilation and gas exchange will help you to understand factors leading to low blood oxygen levels.

Supplemental oxygen  may be required to treat low oxygen levels. There are various delivery systems for oxygen such as heated humidity systems, ventilator systems, nebulizer treatments, or a sleeve for an artificial nose.  The three types of oxygen systems available for home care use include an oxygen concentrator, liquid oxygen, and pressurized gas cylinder oxygen.

A pulse oximeter can be used to assess the amount of oxygen in the blood and assist in assessing the child.   Your assessment skills are more valuable than relying on a pulse oximeter because these devices can sometimes give incorrect readings.

At times, a manual resuscitation bag will be used to assist the child with breathing.  The manual resuscitation bag can be disposable or reusable.  The key to using the resuscitation bags is that the bag and mask must be with the child at all times.

What you will learn

After you complete this lesson you will be able to do the following:

  • Discuss the physiology of the respiratory system, including ventilation and gas exchange.
  • Identify the types of oxygen delivery systems and devices.
  • Outline safe use of oxygen.
  • Explain how and when to use an oximeter.
  • Explain how and when to use a resuscitation bag

Getting the most from this lesson

To learn more from this lesson we recommend that you approach it in the following way:

  • Read through the information on the home page. The concept viewers give you additional information about the underlined terms.
  • The lecture contains the primary content for the lesson.
  • Work through the learning activity to apply the information from the lecture.
  • You will be ready for the quiz after you have completed all components of the lesson.