Evaluation of Intensive Care Unit Ventilators at Altitude

The PB 840 did not deliver VTs that were larger than the ASTM standard up to an altitude of 16,000 feet while the majority of the delivered VTs with the Därger XL were greater than the ASTM standard. This could present a patient safety issue. Caregivers must be aware of the capabilities and limitations of ICU ventilators when utilized in a hypobaric environment in order to provide safe care.