Podcast #444: Dyspnea in the intubated patient

Author: Aaron Lessen, MD Educational Pearls: Dyspnea can occur in up to 50% of intubated patients Dyspnea is associated with prolonged mechanical intubation Often goes undiagnosed as these patients have difficulty communicating Expert opinion on reducing sensation of dyspnea Reduce stimulation of respiratory drive like fever and acidosis Give bronchodilators for patients with wheezing Optimize the ventilator settings Use medications for comfort (i.e. opioids, benzodiazepines) References: Decavèle M, Similowski T, Demoule A. Detection and management of dyspnea in mechanically ventilated patients. Curr Opin Crit Care. 2019 Feb;25(1):86-94. doi: 10.1097/MCC.0000000000000574. PubMed PMID: 30531366. Summarized by Travis Barlock, MS4 | Edited by Erik Verzemnieks, MD