We assessed adult patients within 24 h after receiving invasive mechanical ventilation, which was anticipated to be continued for more than 48 h. The exclusion criteria were as follows: patients aged below 18 years, with trauma or chest tube insertion at the measurement point, receiving treatment with continuous neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA) infusion, and diagnosed with esophageal disease.
Throughout the study period, all patients received pressure assist-control ventilation using the same ICU ventilator (PB840 or PB980) (Covidien, Mansfield, Massachusetts). The inspiratory pressure was set to obtain a tidal volume of 6–8 mL/kg ideal body weight. Parameters such as positive end-expiratory pressure, fraction of inspired oxygen, respiratory frequency, inspiratory time and flow trigger sensitivity were adjusted by bedside physicians. Other patient management strategies were performed by the bedside physicians and nurses according to the critical care guidelines and the analgesia-sedation protocol of our institution.
Throughout the study period, all patients received pressure assist-control ventilation using the same ICU ventilator (PB840 or PB980) (Covidien, Mansfield, Massachusetts). The inspiratory pressure was set to obtain a tidal volume of 6–8 mL/kg ideal body weight. Parameters such as positive end-expiratory pressure, fraction of inspired oxygen, respiratory frequency, inspiratory time and flow trigger sensitivity were adjusted by bedside physicians. Other patient management strategies were performed by the bedside physicians and nurses according to the critical care guidelines and the analgesia-sedation protocol of our institution.