What should be monitored closely when a patient is on mechanical ventilation?

Monitoring ventilator settings and the patient's response is crucial when a patient is on mechanical ventilation for several reasons. The primary goal of mechanical ventilation is to ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation while minimizing potential complications. It's essential to keep a close watch on the ventilator parameters such as tidal volume, respiratory rate, and the mode of ventilation being used, as these need to be adjusted based on the patient's changing clinical status.

Moreover, the patient's response includes assessing their blood gases, respiratory effort, and overall comfort. Observing for signs of distress or discomfort can indicate if the current settings are appropriate or if adjustments are necessary. Regularly checking these factors helps in early identification of potential problems such as ventilator disconnection, patient-ventilator asynchrony, or inadequate ventilation, which could lead to serious health issues.

In contrast, while monitoring dietary intake, fluid balance, or neurological status can be important in the broader scope of patient care, they are secondary to the priority of ensuring the effectiveness and appropriateness of mechanical ventilation.