Critical care medicine
-
Critical care medicine · Jan 2004
ReviewVentilatory management of acute respiratory distress syndrome: a consensus of two.
To synthesize the emerging body of experimental, observational, and clinical trial data into a practical guideline for safe and effective ventilatory management of acute respiratory distress syndrome. ⋯ Prevention of ventilator-induced lung injury while accomplishing the essential life-supporting roles of mechanical ventilation is a complex undertaking that requires application of principles founded on a broad experimental and clinical database and on the results of well-executed clinical trials. At the bedside, execution of an effective lung-protective ventilation strategy remains an empirical process best guided by integrated physiology and a readiness to revise the management approach depending on the individual's response.