Emergency responders need training on home breathing devices for COPD patients
A new review finds that more COPD patients are using non-invasive ventilation at home to improve quality of life, but ambulance crews often lack awareness of this treatment. EMS physicians must understand these devices to provide appropriate care during emergencies, the researchers conclude, with implications for training standards and patient safety protocols.
Originaltitel: Home non-invasive respiratory support in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and ambulance physician tactics on missions to such patients. Review
**Hembaserad respiratorstöd för COPD-patienter kräver ny ambulansberedskap** Långtidsbehandling med icke-invasiv ventilation (NIV) blir allt vanligare hos COPD-patienter hemma, men ambulanspersonalen är ofta otillräckligt förberedda på denna patientgrupp. En granskning av 30 vetenskapliga källor visar att NIV förbättrar livskvalitet och överlevnad för dessa patienter, även om bieffekter förblir ett faktum. Studien från Norrstjörnans medicinska universitet och St Petersburg-institutionen analyserar hur ambulansläkare ska agera när hemventilerade COPD-patienter försämras akut. För inköps- och verksamhetschefer inom regionvård är konklusionen central: sjukvårdpersonal behöver rutintraining i NIV-hantering och akutprotokoll. Patientgruppen växer stadigt, vilket ökar påtryckningskraven på ambulanser. Rekommendation att integrera denna kunskap i ambulansutbildning kan reducera felbehandlingar och onödiga sjukhusvistelser.
The purpose of this study was to analyze publications on the use of extended domestic non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and to discuss the tactics of EMS physicians when providing care to these patients as their condition worsens. Methods . Аnalyzing 30 foreign and domestic sources, 21 of which were published in the last 5 years, was the method employed. Results. The data presented in the analyzed studies provide basic information on the indications for and technique of NIV in COPD. NIV in these individuals improves life quality and expectancy, but does not eliminate the risk of side effects. The overall number of such patients is steadily increasing. EMS physicians must be aware of this treatment method in order to be able to provide the necessary assistance if needed. Conclusion. The review’s data has practical significance for emergency medical services physicians.