Ventilator Awareness Training

About Ventilation Training Course

Ventilator training (also called Ventilation awareness training) teaches healthcare workers how to use and manage ventilators, which are machines that help patients breathe.

The training is important for healthcare workers such as carers and nurses in intensive care units, emergency departments, respiratory therapy departments, and other critical care areas where ventilators are used.

It ensures they have the skills to safely and effectively manage patients on ventilators, provide optimal support, and help patients successfully wean off mechanical ventilation.

The course will teach delegates about the respiratory system and the effects the ventilation system can have on an individual.

• Course Duration: 2- 3 hours
• Course Level: Level 2
• Certificate: 1-year certificate
• Max Delegates: 12
• Practical: Yes
• Mode: Face to Face/Blended

Delegates will discuss the various types of ventilation, the common complications associated with ventilation and what to do if there is a complication.

We are offering a combined full day Respiratory Care training day, which includes:

• Cough Assist training
• Ventilation
• Oxygen thereapy training
• Nebulisers training

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Ventilator Course Outline

This ventilator awareness training course is aimed at nurses and carers responsible for the care of those who utilise a ventilation system.

I. Definition of Ventilation

• What is mechanical ventilation?
• Purpose and goals of ventilatory support

II. Anatomy & Physiology

• Overview of the respiratory system
• Understanding respiratory mechanics
• Gas exchange and acid-base balance

III. Reasons for Ventilation

• Respiratory failure (acute and chronic)
• Neurological disorders affecting respiration
• Surgical procedures requiring ventilatory support

IV. Different Types of Ventilation

• Volume-controlled ventilation
• Pressure-controlled ventilation
• Pressure support ventilation
• Other modes (e.g., SIMV, APRV, HFOV)

V. Non-Invasive Ventilation

• Indications for non-invasive ventilation
• Types of non-invasive interfaces (e.g., CPAP, BiPAP)
• Patient selection and management

VI. Complications of Ventilation and Troubleshooting

• Potential complications (e.g., barotrauma, VAP, weaning failure)
• Alarm management and troubleshooting
• Responding to adverse events

VII. Documentation

• Importance of accurate documentation
• Ventilator data and settings to be documented
• Documentation standards and protocols

This outline covers the key topics for ventilator training, starting with a basic understanding of ventilation and moving to more advanced concepts, like different ventilation modes, non-invasive ventilation, and managing complications.

The documentation section highlights the importance of proper record-keeping and following documentation standards.

Learning Outcome

Upon completing this training, participants will be able to:

• Explain why mechanical ventilation is used.
• Understand how the lungs and breathing work.
• Identify conditions that need ventilatory support.
• Differentiate and choose the right ventilation modes.
• Start and manage non-invasive ventilation.
• Recognise and fix problems with ventilation.
• Adjust ventilator settings based on patient needs.
• Follow ventilator weaning protocols.
• Show skill in using ventilators through practice.
• Record ventilator data correctly according to standards.

Course Benefits:

• Better Patient Safety: Trained professionals can manage ventilators correctly and address issues early, preventing complications.
• Consistent Quality of Care: Skilled caregivers can optimise ventilator settings and provide consistent care for all patients.
• Smooth Care Transitions: Standardised training ensures seamless transfer of care and consistent management.
• Enhanced Professional Skills: Training equips caregivers with the skills needed for effective ventilator management.
• Potential Cost Savings: Proper management helps avoid complications, leading to potential cost savings.

In simple terms, through this training, caregivers gain the skills to provide consistent care that meets standards, leading to potential cost savings.

Who is the training for:

The ventilator training course is for healthcare workers (nurses and carers) who care for patients needing mechanical ventilation.

Here are the main groups who should attend the ventilation training:

• Carers: Care workers, support workers, and HCAs.
• Nurses: Critical care nurses, ICU nurses, Emergency department nurses, and Respiratory care nurses.
• Other Healthcare Professionals: Physician assistants, Nurse practitioners, Paramedics, and Respiratory therapy students.

This training is essential for anyone responsible for starting, managing, or weaning patients from mechanical ventilation in settings like:

• ICUs Emergency Departments
• Respiratory Care Units
• Operating Rooms
• Post-Anaesthesia Care Units
• Long-Term Acute Care Facilities

Healthcare professionals in home care or long-term care where ventilated patients may be transferred would also benefit from this training.

People who attend our ventilation course for nurses and carers will gain the knowledge and skills to ensure safe ventilator management, improve patient outcomes, and meet standards and protocols.

Healthcare Ventilation Training FAQs

1. What is VeNT training? VeNT stands for Ventilation Training. It’s a specialised course for healthcare pros to learn how to use and manage mechanical ventilators, machines that help patients breathe.
2. Can a nurse manage a ventilator? Yes, nurses in critical care areas like ICUs, emergency departments, and respiratory units can manage ventilators after proper training. It’s a crucial part of their job in these settings.
3. Can a carer manage a ventilator? No, carers or non-medical staff usually aren’t trained or qualified to manage mechanical ventilators. It requires specialised medical knowledge and training.
4. What is ventilation nursing? It’s a specialised area where nurses care for patients needing mechanical ventilation. They handle starting, adjusting ventilators and overall patient care.
5. What’s the difference between ventilation and tracheostomy training?

While both ventilation training and tracheostomy training are related to respiratory care, they are distinct areas of focus:

Ventilation Training:

• • Focuses on managing mechanical ventilators.
  • Covers ventilator modes, settings, weaning protocols, and patient monitoring.
  • Helps pros support patients with respiratory issues.

Tracheostomy Training:

• • Focuses on caring for patients with a tracheostomy, an artificial airway.
  • Covers tube care, suctioning, stoma care, and complications.
  • Prepares pros to manage patients with a tracheostomy, whether ventilated or not.

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What is Home mechanical ventilation training

Home mechanical ventilation training teaches patients, caregivers, and family members how to use and manage ventilators at home.

This training is vital for people needing long-term ventilatory support due to conditions like neuromuscular diseases, spinal cord injuries, or chronic respiratory failure.

Course target: Respiratory therapists, nurses, or other skilled healthcare workers.

The goal is to ensure that patients and their caregivers can safely and effectively manage the ventilator at home, promoting independence and a better quality of life while reducing the risk of complications or equipment problems.

What is BiPAP Training and What is CPAP Training?

BIPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) and CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) are non-invasive ventilation therapies. Training is essential for patients using these devices.

BIPAP Training:

BIPAP training teaches patients how to use a BIPAP machine, which offers two pressure levels: higher pressure when inhaling and lower pressure when exhaling. The training covers:

1. Understanding the purpose and benefits of BIPAP therapy.
2. Setting up and assembling the BIPAP machine and accessories.
3. Fitting and adjusting the BIPAP mask for a secure, comfortable seal.
4. Operating the BIPAP machine, adjusting settings, and using ramp features.
5. Cleaning and maintaining the BIPAP equipment.
6. Troubleshooting common issues like air leaks or discomfort.
7. Managing potential side effects like dry mouth or nasal congestion.

CPAP Training:

CPAP training focuses on using a CPAP machine, which delivers a constant air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. The training typically includes:

1. Understanding sleep apnea and the role of CPAP therapy.
2. Setting up and assembling the CPAP machine and humidifier (if applicable).
3. Fitting and adjusting the CPAP mask for a secure, comfortable seal.
4. Operating the CPAP machine, adjusting pressure settings, and using ramp features.
5. Cleaning and maintaining the CPAP equipment, including filters.
6. Troubleshooting common issues like air leaks, skin irritation, or nasal congestion.
7. Managing potential side effects like dry mouth or aerophagia (air swallowing).

Both BIPAP and CPAP training aim to ensure patients can effectively use the equipment at home, adhere to the therapy, and manage any issues or side effects.

Proper training is crucial for the success of these non-invasive ventilation therapies. Our Ventilator course covers both aspect of CPAP and BiPAP.