Non-invasive Ventilation Guidelines for Adult Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure

The purpose of this guideline is to provide a consistent level of support and guidance to clinicians in adult critical care areas and specialist respiratory care units about the care required for patients receiving NIV. This guideline draws on current best evidence and clinical expertise and describes key aspects of care including: 1) clinical assessment; 2) NIV management; and 3) and patient care. The guideline does not include recommendations regarding other treatments that patients may require including bronchodilators, cortocosteroids or antibiotics. The degree to which an adult patient is compliant with NIV not only relates to his or her presenting physiological condition, it also involves a combination of issues associated with the therapy. Primary among these issues is the care required to ensure patient comfort, and thus, compliance. The development of this guideline is to formulate recommendations about best practice (based on evidence and clinical expertise) for the care to be provided to a person receiving NIV. The recommendations apply to patients receiving NIV in rural, regional or urban setting and in any adult critical care or specialised respiratory unit, irrespective of the level of Medical Officer and/or allied health professional support.