Once the need for noninvasive ventilation is established, correct settings must be determined.

Once the need for noninvasive ventilation is established, correct settings must be determined. Each patient may differ depending on their illness, tolerance, and lung compliance. Initial settings often require changes as patient conditions change.

1. A patient is initially set up on an IPAP of 10, EPAP of 5, FiO2 of 50%. They are not receiving appropriate tidal volumes. The RT checks for excessive leaks and determines the mask fit is fine. What setting adjustment could be made to increase the patient’s tidal volume?

2. A patient is on maximum FiO2 settings, the physician asks you to make changes that would help increase the patient’s SpO2. What setting change would you recommend?

3. When administering an aerosolized treatment with NIV where should the treatment be placed?