Digital electronic communication between ICU ventilators and computers and printers.

UNLABELLED: Although many modern ICU ventilators offer the option of electronic communication, most of these systems are not used because there is a huge communication gap between the ventilator and the computer it might be connected to. When such systems are now used, a large part of what is communicated is artifactual and misleading. We need to overcome both legal and knowledge barriers in the effort to provide seamless communication between ventilators and computers. With regard to the specific issues raised in this paper, here are our answers. Issue #1: Is it essential to have a digital electronic communication port on an ICU ventilator? ANSWER: No, it is not essential. The purpose of the mechanical ventilator is to support pulmonary ventilation by supplying gas and pressure. There is no vital role for digital communication in the gas-delivery function of the ventilator; however, in the future it will be essential to have effective electronic communication in order to guarantee accurate and timely charting. Issue #2: What impact does electronic communication between a ventilator and a computer have on patient outcome? ANSWER: Our preliminary data show that electronic communication can reduce the number of charting errors and can improve the timeliness of data entry. However, there is little evidence, other than anecdotal, that this has any impact on patient outcome. Automated charting has been shown to reduce the time spent on charting. This time-savings could be used to increase time spent in direct patient care, but there is no conclusive evidence that this occurs. In fact, one report on computerized charting systems indicates that the result is less time spent in direct patient care. Issue #3: If electronic communication is to be effective in the future, how should these interfaces be configured for mechanical ventilation? ANSWER: We recommend an optimal algorithm for automated respiratory care charting that has been suggested. Sampling frequency: Sample data from the ventilator every 10 seconds. Ventilator-setting changes: Report every new setting if change lasts more than 3 minutes. Measured respiratory care data: Filter raw MIB-collected data with a 3-minute moving-median filter. Report one filtered value every hour for each variable. In addition, use a threshold table (Table 3) to define significant events. Report changes that remain above threshold more than 3 minutes. Report all measured respiratory-care data 1 minute following any ventilator-mode changes.