Exploring the evidence base of the use of non-invasive ventilation.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has a prevalence rate of between 4-10% in the UK (Halbert et al, 2003) and as such accounts for a large number of hospital admissions each year. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is now increasingly used to treat exacerbations of this condition and therefore nurses caring for these patients need an understanding of the rationale behind its instigation. This article reviews the literature pertaining to the use of NIV in the patient with COPD and provides a critique of the research available. The implications for practice have been highlighted through a discussion regarding the nursing management of the patient on NIV.