Which condition can occur due to inappropriate mechanical ventilation settings?

Mechanical ventilation is a critical intervention in the care of neonates who experience respiratory failure or distress. The settings applied during mechanical ventilation can have significant effects on a patient's blood gas levels.

Respiratory alkalosis can occur when mechanical ventilation settings are too aggressive, leading to excessive ventilation or hyperventilation. If the respiratory rate or tidal volume on the ventilator is set too high, it can cause an increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) elimination. This decrease in CO2 results in an increased blood pH, leading to respiratory alkalosis. Through hyperventilation, the body's ability to retain carbon dioxide is compromised, which disrupts the acid-base balance and elevates pH levels in the blood.

Understanding the balance of ventilation settings is crucial in clinical practice, as the aim is to ensure adequate gas exchange without over-ventilating the patient, which can lead to respiratory alkalosis and its associated complications. Therefore, recognizing and correctly adjusting mechanical ventilation settings is an essential aspect of providing effective neonatal care.