Is Humidification Always Necessary During Noninvasive Ventilation in the Hospital?

Authors: Branson, Richard D; Gentile, Michael A

Source: Respiratory Care, Volume 55, Number 2, February 2010 , pp. 209-216(8)

Publisher: The Journal Respiratory Care Company

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Abstract:

Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is a standard of care for the treatment of exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to prevent intubation and reduce morbidity and mortality. The need for humidification of NIV gas is controversial. Some unique aspects of NIV conspire to alter the delivered humidity and airway function. In the presence of air leaks, unidirectional air flow dries the airways and increases airway resistance. Patient comfort is also a critical issue, as tolerance of NIV is often tied to patient comfort. This paper provides the arguments for and against routine humidification during NIV in the hospital setting. Data from clinical research demonstrate the effects of delivered humidification on relevant physiologic variables. The impact of humidification on NIV success/failure remains speculative.

Keywords: mechanical ventilation; noninvasive ventilation; NIV; humidification; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2010-02-01

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