Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is the delivery of ventilator support without the need for an artificial airway, such as an endotracheal tube. NIV has a role in the management of acute or chronic respiratory failure in many patients and may have a role for some patients with heart failure. Non-invasive ventilation can often eliminate the need for intubation or tracheostomy preserving normal swallowing, speech, and cough mechanisms. The use of NIV has grown rapidly in recent years and this trend is expected to continue as facilities adopt protocols aimed at reducing Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP).

VAP is the leading nosocomial infection in critically ill patients and the second most common hospital-associated infection¹. According to the recommendations made by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA), general strategies that have been found to influence the risk of VAP include the use of non-invasive ventilation whenever possible².

Studies have shown that NIV improves oxygenation and is well tolerated by patients with acute respiratory failure. By eliminating the need for endotracheal intubation in certain conditions, the result is fewer complications, shorter hospitals stays and as a result, reduced mortality rates and costs of care³.

Learn more about NIV products from Teleflex Medical:

• Vented NIV Masks
• Non-Vented NIV Masks
• Breathing Circuits
• Humidification