Podcast #444: Dyspnea in the intubated patient

Emergency Medical Minute

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