One of the greatest phobias associated with the study of mechanical ventilation is waveform analysis and interpretation. This is understandable because the physiology and physics of ventilatory support should in fact be regarded as complex and therefore not grasped casually while ‘on the job' or learned easily by leafing through mounds of published literature. Indeed, the later can have a detrimental effect on learning outcomes because current approaches are not without flaws and each publication appears to be in contradiction with the other. To add to confusion, new or expanded concepts are continuously introduced as more ventilators are unveiled and newer ventilatory adjuncts encourage conjecture that is often out of harmony with the fundamental laws of physics.

    Although we do not claim to be the all encompassing experts in the field of ventilatory support, we do boast success in imparting this seemingly onerous information in a straightforward and accurate way to college level students for the past twenty years. Needless to say, our methodology was not discovered overnight but rather through continuous refinement. We found success in the classroom by preserving our simple philosophy of imparting only tangible facts and verifiable theories and these are supported by the extensive use of graphics.

    It is with this determination that we undertake this premiere online course on ventilator waveform analysis. Our goal is to present the material using a proven pedagogical framework from which a solid understanding of waveform analysis will surely evolve.

    Unlike most courses on this topic, this first module assumes that the reader has no prior knowledge of waveform interpretation. It thus begins with the concept of simple vectors followed by a brief explanation of lung characteristics and the ventilator's demand valve as they interrelate in the generation of waveforms. The module then builds from these basic concepts into more sophisticated analysis of waveforms produced by different modes of ventilatory support under varying lung conditions.

    An unhurried approach is strongly encouraged. After all, there is no time limit imposed on effective learning and you can review the material and study the graphics as often as you require. Challenge the post-module quiz only when you feel adequately prepared. We are confident that you'll develop a level of expertise a lot sooner than you've ever imagined.

    We hope you'll enjoy the first module of our set and most of all that you'll have fun while learning. We wish you the best of success with Model One in our Series.

    Yvon Dupuis MEd, RRT
    Paul Williams BEd, RRT, EMCA

    Care to see some Sample Graphics?




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