When assessing a patient on a home ventilator, what is the proper action?

When assessing a patient on a home ventilator, it is essential to assess the patient as you normally would. This means performing a thorough evaluation that includes checking vital signs, assessing airway patency, and evaluating the patient's overall condition. The patient's clinical status is paramount, and while the ventilator is an important piece of equipment, the focus should be on the patient's response to treatment, any potential respiratory distress, and other pertinent clinical findings.

Assessing the patient as you normally would allows you to determine if there are any complications or issues arising from the patient's condition, regardless of the ventilator settings. It also helps to gather a complete picture of the patient's health, which can be critical in making decisions about further care or intervention.

Focusing solely on the ventilator settings does not provide a complete understanding of the patient's needs, and adjusting the ventilator without appropriate training or authority might lead to complications. Delaying assessment until the ventilator is switched off could endanger the patient, especially if they are dependent on the device for respiration. Therefore, a comprehensive approach centered on the patient's condition is the best course of action.