A spinal cord injury can affect the muscles used for breathing. The risk is usually greater when the injury is higher in the neck. Some people need a ventilator for a short period. Others need long-term breathing support.
The level and completeness of the injury help determine how much support is needed. The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center explains how different spinal injury levels can affect breathing.
Why Can a Spinal Cord Injury Affect Breathing?
The spinal cord carries messages between the brain and body. A high cervical injury can interrupt messages sent to the diaphragm and other breathing muscles. It may also weaken the person’s cough. This can make it harder to clear mucus.
Possible respiratory problems include:
- Weak or shallow breathing
- Mucus buildup
- Lung infection
- Low oxygen levels
- Difficulty coughing without help
- Atelectasis, which means part of the lung has collapsed
Medical research on respiratory management after spinal cord injury also identifies mucus plugging, pneumonia, and atelectasis (collapse of a lung) as common concerns.
What Does Daily Ventilator Care Include?
Long-term ventilator care for spinal cord injury patients involves more than checking a machine.
Daily support may include:
- Monitoring breathing and oxygen levels
- Checking ventilator tubing, connections, and alarms
- Providing tracheostomy care when required
- Helping clear airway secretions
- Repositioning the resident safely
- Supporting nutrition, hygiene and daily activities
- Reporting important changes to the medical team
Learn more about our specialized ventilator care services and nursing care plans for people using long-term mechanical ventilation.
Care Must Fit the Individual
Two people with similar injuries may have different needs. One may use a ventilator all day. Another may need it only while sleeping. Some people may later reduce ventilator use under medical supervision.
A personalized care plan should cover breathing support, mobility, skin care, nutrition, medicines, and personal preferences. Families can also read about long-term ventilation complications and steps used to reduce these risks.
Moving From Hospital to Long-Term Care
A medically stable ventilator user may be able to live outside the hospital. The new setting must be able to meet the person’s respiratory, nursing, and daily care needs.
Before admission, the facility may review:
- Medical history and current diagnosis
- Ventilator settings and tracheostomy information
- Medicines, suctioning and oxygen needs
- Mobility and transfer needs
- Nutrition or feeding plan
- Instructions from physicians and therapists
Our ventilator patient admission guide explains the process. Families should also ask practical questions before choosing a ventilator care facility.
A Homelike Option in Vancouver, Washington
Rite Choice Ventilator Specialty AFH LLC provides long-term ventilator care in a residential setting. Residents have private space, skilled nursing support, and help with daily needs. Family members can remain involved.
Healthcare professionals can review our referral information. Families may also view our gallery before arranging a visit.
Discuss Long-Term Ventilator Care With Us
Need care for a ventilator-dependent loved one? Call Rite Choice at (360) 944-4471 or contact our team to discuss their needs and arrange a visit.