Specific Health Issues: Ventilator Dependent -- SHNIC School Nurses Information

Underlying Condition and Possible Problems Arising from Student's Health Condition:

Degree of student's dependency on ventilator.
Student's ability to request assistance, pertaining to problems (i.e., mucous plug).
Type of ventilator.
Signs and symptoms of respiratory distress.
Baseline status (i.e., ventilator setting, lung sounds, rate, color, pulse, Sat. Level, etc.).
Need for skilled caregiver with student in classroom setting and transport.
Ventilator settings checked every one to two hours.
Power supply available as back up.
Resuscitation and emergency orders.
Latex allergy
Other equipment necessary.
Emergency protocols.
Training of caregivers, etc.

Make sure that you have a copy of the troubleshooting guide
Check power system (i.e., internal battery and external battery)
Accessible functioning outlets
Oxygen source connection to ventilator, as well as spare tubing and oxygen supply (i.e., spare tank and gauge)
Flow and percentage of oxygen
Humidification source
Volume
Rate
Student pressure manometer
Peak inspiratory pressure (PIP)
Positive and expiratory pressure (PEEP)
Ventilator mode
Inspiratory time
High pressure alarm
Low pressure alarm
Power source alarm
Patient pressure tubing
Patient port
Exhalation valve
Peep valve and additional adapters

Check power supply of battery everyday, make sure that, if possible, the ventilator can be plugged into wall when student is at school.
Check settings of ventilator against physician's orders to ensure proper settings are maintained.
Check to make sure that the access number for emergency repair is visible on the ventilator.
Check to make sure that there is a spare tank of oxygen and guage, as well as connecting tubings.
Check to make sure that the student has supply bag with them that contains an ambu bag with proper connecting tubes.