OVERVIEW

A ventilator is a machine that helps patients breathe by moving oxygen into the lungs and removing carbon dioxide or waste gas from the body. Ventilators are used in surgery, but are also ordered by doctors in homecare when a disease or condition impairs lung function and a patient is not able to breathe on his or her own.

This in-service instructs home health aides on the types of conditions that require a ventilator, and what the aide's role is in caring for that patient. Caring for a patient who uses a ventilator is a partnership between the patient, family, nurse, the respiratory therapist, and the aide. Aides may be asked to provide basic nursing care, but the most essential skills are good observation and reporting skills and teamwork.

LESSON OBJECTIVES

After completion of this program, the home health aide will be able to:

- Discuss the role and limitations of the HHA when caring for a patient using a ventilator
- Recognize the structure and function of the respiratory system
- Identify types of patients who are in need of breathing assistance
- Examine purpose and function of ventilators and related equipment
- Recognize situations that may cause the patient to be at risk for poor oxygenation
- Discuss specific issues of care for the patient who uses a ventilator

Contents of this lesson:

- A clearly written fact sheet
- A 10-question post-test to measure understanding of the subject matter
- An answer sheet with a place for the instructor's comments and signature
- An illustrative, homecare-specific case study
- Suggested supplemental learning activities
- An attendance log and certificate of completion