title: The art and science of mechanical ventilator adjustments.
abstract: This article describes how information from mechanical ventilator settings, ABG, pulse oximetry, and capnography are useful in making therapeutic changes in mechanical ventilator settings. The nurse can use trial and error or apply scientific principles to adjust mechanical ventilator settings efficiently to correct abnormalities in ventilation or oxygenation. Consistent application of these principles improves nursing assessment and interventions as well as prevents undue pain and expense on the patient's behalf.
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Dettenmeier
authors.forename: T M
authors.initials: TM
authors.lastname: Johnson
mesh_terms: D001784:Blood Gas Analysis; D006801:Humans; D008176:Lung Volume Measurements; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D010092:Oximetry; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*