Course Overview

This course will help prepare licensed non-ICU hospital clinicians to support critical care, physicians, and nurses in caring for a patient who is receiving mechanical ventilation. Given the increasing number of patients requiring mechanical ventilation, the healthcare system is and will continue to be, in dire need of licensed medical professionals who can support the care for these patients.

This course provides general information about mechanical ventilation. It is intended for licensed medical personnel. Patient needs and clinical care settings vary, and the information provided is not intended as medical, diagnostic or treatment advice. Ventilators should be used under the supervision of a qualified licensed medical professional. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the particular device you are using and the product information sheet for any drug administered. This subject is complex and evolving.

Helping prepare non-ICU hospital personnel to help in the operation of a mechanical ventilator will make us stronger, giving us all an extra pair of hands to lean on for support.

There is no question that critical care physicians and nurses are the experts for managing the care for critically ill patients.

This course is a great primer for non-ICU physicians and other clinicians who are asked to staff critical care areas. It will help these professionals better understand the basic concepts of mechanical ventilation and care for the patient receiving mechanical ventilation. Because of this, the medical system will need clinicians that can assist in operating mechanical ventilators. We encourage all non-ICU clinicians to consider completing this course, readying themselves to best help their colleagues and patients on the front lines of this virus.

By the end of this course, you should be able to:

1. Describe the indications for mechanical ventilation
2. Describe in detail the mechanics of a ventilator
3. Describe the commonly used modes of ventilation
4. Describe the management of a mechanically ventilated patient
5. Complications of MV
6. Extubation

Course Requirements

• A medical science background
• Physiology understanding
• Free or premium Medcrine account
• Internet connection

Course Curriculum