Models of Noninvasive Ventilation Organization in Bioterrorism and Other Catastrophic Conditions

Abstract

There are different forms of terrorism in the world. However, bioterrorism has the potential to be more devastating than chemical and nuclear terror. The deliberate release of a biological agent into a civilian population, exposing hundreds and thousands of people to a severe pathogen, is called bioterrorism. Bioterrorism may be suspected when unusually high rates of a single disease are seen, or an unusual pathogen is isolated in the laboratory. Millions of people are affected by bioterrorism events and wars. Hospitals and health personnel need to be prepared to deal with thousands of critically ill patients in these cases. Positive pressure mechanical ventilation is required for patients who cannot achieve adequate oxygenation with only oxygen support and develop respiratory failure with high carbon dioxide levels and acidosis during serious epidemics and wars. Positive pressure ventilation is given to patients in two ways; invasive and noninvasive. Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) can be preferred primarily in patients who are hemodynamically stable, conscious, and do not have upper airway obstruction with acute respiratory failure and for patients after extubation.

The purpose of NIMV is to reduce intubation rates and to accompany complications.

The risk of scattering microorganisms that cause droplet transmission is high due to positive airway pressure and leaks. These patients should be followed up in negative pressure rooms, and the health-care personnel must provide complete personal protection. Helmet NIMV seems to be more appropriate for these patients due to the leakage risk. In addition, transmission is less, and patients can tolerate it better.