A 3-year retrospective audit of the use of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation via the Oxylog 3000 transport ventilator during air medical retrievals.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to describe the safety profile of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) using the Oxylog 3000 transport ventilator (Drager Medical, Lübeck, Germany) by air medical retrieval teams from the Queensland Section of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia. METHODS: Over a 3-year period, patients identified in clinical transport records to have NIPPV via the Oxylog 3000 transport ventilator during air medical transfer were systematically reviewed on the clinical indication and adverse effects. RESULTS: A total of 29 patients were identified to have had treatment with NIPPV during air medical retrieval. Three patients suffered serious adverse effects of cardiorespiratory arrest during treatment. The main reported adverse event was intolerance of the facemask. There were no documented episodes of vomiting or hypotension. CONCLUSION: The use of NIPPV via the Oxylog 3000 transport ventilator during air medical retrieval requires careful patient selection. The application and management do not differ from standard hospital-based practice.