CPAP and/or NIV in cardiogenic pulmonary oedema

Abstract

<h3>Educational aims</h3> Define the benefits of using CPAP and/or NIV in heart failure. Detail recommendations for the use of ventilators for the clinical treatment of heart failure. Discuss the evidence for and against using ventilators in heart failure. Describe the benefit of using NIV in a pre-clinical setting. <h3>Summary</h3> Heart failure is a complex topic which poses difficult decisions for ventilator specialists. Currently available therapies are mechanical ventilation and standard therapy with oxygen or medical intervention. Ventilator specialists face a difficult decision when choosing which of these to use as the evidence for each is not conclusive. The primary aim of the chosen treatment is to improve oxygenation and respiratory acidosis and reduce the work of breathing and dyspnoea. In addition, another goal of treatment is an improvement of cardiac performance. To date, it is difficult to recommend which available treatment is the best at achieving these goals and it is recommended that individual treatment for each patient should be based on their specific needs and circumstances.