More advanced education for more experienced nurses could be included in annual skill renewals including innovative delivery strategies to keep nursing staff apprised about newer ventilator modes, use of oscillators, automatic weaning programs, and innovations in mechanical ventilatory support to minimize lung injury for patients with severe respiratory failure.
Of crucial importance is the partnering with respiratory care services to foster sharing of knowledge and information of ventilator modes, ventilator dynamics, weaning, and new mechanical ventilators. Joint staff education sessions could be held to ensure that both groups of health care professionals are incorporating the latest evidence for the care of patients receiving mechanical ventilation while supporting interdisciplinary collaboration.
For nurses interested in learning about mechanical ventilatory support more in-depth, a “Vent Camp” experience could be offered that addresses more advanced content and experience with mechanical ventilation and patient management issues. Suggested learning strategies include the use of simulation and complex clinical scenarios.