Aanalysis of complications of use of mechanical ventilation in children of a pediatric intensive care unit

Resumen

The acute respiratory insuffi ciency is one of the situations that may lead children to tracheal intubation. One aimed to analyze the complications of mechanical ventilation in children of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Transversal, quantitative study, with sample of 72 children in ventilatory support. The data were collected through a form from September through December, 2006, being presented in charts and graphics. In the results the most frequent complications were accidental extubation and selective intubation. The mechanical ventilation average was 21 days and 4 hours. We concluded that the assistance to the MV still represents a challenge for professionals who look for alternatives to minimize complications related to the care directed to the seriously ill child.