Non-invasive ventilation for adult patients with acute respiratory failure

Published: 2023. Next review: 2028.

This guide supports local health districts and hospitals to develop local procedures and guidelines for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) for critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure.

This guide aims to ensure:

  • patients receive appropriate care at the right time and within the right location of the hospital
  • services are safe, effective and sustainable
  • staff receive appropriate education, training and support.

Download the guide (PDF 810.0 KB)

At a glance

Clinical assessment

  • Indications
  • Contraindications
  • Patient assessment
  • Initiation and settings
  • Escalation of therapy

Equipment

  • Non-invasive ventilation setup
  • Humidification
  • Mask/machine interface
  • Infection control
  • Equipment management

Patient care

  • Observation and monitoring
  • Skin integrity
  • Nutrition and hydration
  • Weaning
  • Non-invasive ventilation in a palliative care setting
Staff capability – Education and training – Governance
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