Patient-ventilator asynchronies are a mismatch between the inspiratory and expiratory times of the patient and the ventilator. A common way to detect asynchronies is by examining ventilator waveforms. There are different types of asynchronies, each with a set of characteristics that can be visually recognized. The well trained eye can detect asynchronies by analyzing either the flow or pressure waveform (
To aid you in recognizing the tell-tale characteristics of each asynchrony, we have created a two-page reference card (also called "cheatsheet"), which you can download below.
It gives you a quick overview of:
The 7 main types of asynchronies
Indications on what to look for on the pressure or flow waveform
A visual example of the waveform with the most recognizable feature highlighted
Common possible causes for the different types of asynchrony
Don't miss out on the opportunity to improve your knowledge of mechanical ventilation.