An Indicator to Prioritize the Mechanical Ventilators Replacement in a Secondary Care Hospital in Mexico.

Abstract

This paper presents a practical application of health technology assessment for 21 mechanical ventilators, located at a secondary care Hospital in the State of Mexico, Mexico. A global indicator is obtained, by using a mathematical tool, which involves 14 variables grouped into three partial indicators: technical, clinical and economic. The final aim of this approach is to provide evidence for decision-making, in order to prioritize the replacement of medical equipment, taking into consideration its performance features, the needs of demand for care, and the economic implications for the Hospital.Clinical Relevance-Invasive Mechanical Ventilation (IMV), is a clinical procedure which implies a total or partial replacement of lung function. Given the life support implications, it is important to assure security and reliability in medical equipment intended for this therapy. Therefore, in order to keep updated the IMV devices, in addition to requiring preventive maintenance programs, medical technology replacement programs are necessary.