USE CAUTION in administering
Be prepared to intubate!
Patients with neuro-muscular disease are subject to...
DO NOT administer supplemental O2 for sustained periods without CONSTANT monitoring of EtCO2 with a capnograph. EtCO2>43 mmHg indicates CO2 retention. Administration of O2 can cause CO2 to rise, resulting in hypercapnia, coma, and DEATH!
Sustained hypercapnia (EtCO2>43) requires mechanical ventilatory assistance. Use noninvasive ventilation via mouthpiece or nasal interface with high-span Bi-PAP (typ. 18/2, rate 10) or volume vent (typ. 1000 ml, rate 10, command/assist mode). If unconcious, intubation may be required.
Also see: Severe hypercapnia after low-flow oxygen therapy...
For additional information,
Use the Physician's Desk Reference or MedLine Plus Drug Information to verify known side-effects before administering drugs. Watch for warnings and cautions related to neuro-muscular disease, muscular dystrophy, malignant hyperthermia, lung disease, tachycardia, etc.
General anesthesia is accompanied by a number of important risks. When general anesthesia is required in order to undergo a specific procedure, succinylcholine and inhalational anesthetics need to be AVOIDED.
Also see:
American Thoracic Society Consensus Statement -- Respiratory Care of the Patient with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (PDF 106k)
This official statement of the American Thoracic Society was approved by the ATS Board of Directors March 2004.
ICU Protocol for Pulmonary Care
Prevention of Pulmonary Morbidity
In memory of Brandon Miller (1981-2001).
"I certainly hope it helps save another boy's life, and
I think it will." Brandon's mom.
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