Vent control
Auto-PEEP / dynamic hyperinflation
Flow-time scalar first: expiratory flow not returning to baseline is the clue.
Recognize the waveformFlow not back to baseline.Check hemodynamicsAuto-PEEP can drop preload and BP.Expiratory holdMeasure intrinsic PEEP if stable/appropriate.Adjust I:ELower RR/VT, increase flow, shorten Ti.Obstructive physiologyAsthma/COPD/bronchospasm setup.
Clinical review / use limits
Authored by: Airway of the Month education team. Last reviewed: July 2026. Audience: EM learners, faculty, EMS, RT, simulation educators, and airway teams.
This is an educational cognitive-aid scaffold, not a bedside order set. Verify medications, ventilator changes, pediatric dosing, and procedures against local ED, ICU, anesthesia, pharmacy, RT, EMS, and pediatric policies.
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