Abstract
Of the major complication groups in postoperative patients, that of pulmonary difficulties is one of the most frequent causes of increased morbidity and mortality. A preventive strategy is necessary to reduce the incidence of pulmonary complications and minimize their clinical repercussions. Atelectasis is a frequent complication in postoperative patients. During mechanical ventilation, atelectasis can occur because medicinal gases are cold and dry. Atelectasis can cause hypoxemia and increase the risk of nosocomial pneumonia. Adequate airway humidification can help prevent the occurrence of atelectasis. The decision to use a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) or heated humidifier (HH) should be made for each patient, based on cost assistance, infection control, and other medical considerations. The decision about the use of HMEs can generally be considered based on cost savings; however, in patients with the presence of specific circumstances (such as hypothermia, atelectasis, thick secretions or hemoptysis), the use of HHs can be considered.
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© 2012 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg
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Lorente, L. (2012). Postoperative Mechanical Ventilation-Humidification. In: Esquinas, A. (eds) Humidification in the Intensive Care Unit. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-02974-5_18
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-02974-5_18
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