Non-invasive ventilators
After receiving an urgent plea for non-invasive ventilators, we launched our Breathe Easy Appeal in late 2020.
The paediatric critical care unit (PCCU) had already been using a non-invasive ventilator funded by the charity in the past. Anticipating a sharp rise in admissions in the months to come and knowing what a vital asset the machines were to children receiving critical care, they asked for the charity’s support to fund more.
PCCU treats around 560 critically ill children a year. At some point during their stay, most children will need ventilation to help keep them alive. Whereas full support from a standard ventilator would involve sedation and intubation, a non-invasive ventilator does not require the insertion of a tube so a patient can remain conscious. This is more beneficial to both a child’s physical health and wellbeing.
Suzanne Davies, ward manager of PCCU, said: The emotional stress to both patients and parents is better if the child isn’t intubated. Over the past six months, we’ve seen a huge increase in the number of children needing non-invasive ventilation. Our patient profile has changed to more complex needs children and respiratory support is one of the major issues for them. The types of conditions that children are treated for with the non-invasive ventilator include neuro-disabilities, including those who have oxygen support at home, heart conditions with a need for cardiac support, chronic respiratory difficulties and ventilation after an operation.”
This machine will go on to help children like Emily, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis shortly after birth. Now 14, Emily spent more than three months on PCCU after a lung infection left her too weak to breathe for herself. While there, Emily spent many weeks on the non-invasive ventilator previously funded by the charity.
Her mum, Shirley, who knows only too well what a lifeline they provide to children like hers, said: The machines are invaluable when your child is so unwell. We have seen and experienced ourselves how much they aid children’s recovery and will be forever grateful for the technology that was available when Emily was so ill.”
