A patient has been supported by a mechanical ventilator using a heat and moisture exchanger for the last 3 days. Suctioning reveals an increase in the amount and tenacity of secretions. Which of the following actions is indicated?
a. Increase the hygroscopic condenser hu-midifier temperature.
b. Reassess the patient's secretions over the next 24 to 48 hr.
c. Replace the hygroscopic condenser hu-midifier with a new one.
d. Switch the patient to a large-volume heated humidifier.
ANS: D
The AARC has published Clinical Practice Guideline: Humidification During Mechanical Venti-lation. Excerpts are in CPG 38-1.
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