Effectiveness of Non-Invasive Ventilation in Preventing Intubation in Acute Respiratory Failure

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the Outcomes Associated with Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) in the prevention of invasive mechanical ventilation in patients with severe respiratory distress.

Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study conducted at the Pulmonology Departments of Doctors Hospital and Farooq Hospital, Lahore. Overall, 160 Patients meeting the diagnostic criteria for acute respiratory failure were included in the study. With acute respiratory failure were included in the study using consecutive sampling. Patients were managed with NIV and monitored for outcomes including the need for intubation. Clinical parameters, comorbidities, and response to NIV were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 27, A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Out of 160 patients, 104 (65%) showed successful response to NIV, while 56 (35%) required intubation. Patients with successful NIV had significantly higher PaO₂ and SpO₂ levels and lower respiratory rates compared to those who failed NIV (p<0.001). Severe hypoxemia, delayed initiation of NIV, and presence of comorbidities were significantly associated with NIV failure.

Conclusion: NIV is a valuable supportive modality that reduces the need for intubation in acute respiratory failure in reducing the need for intubation in acute respiratory failure, particularly when initiated early and applied to appropriately selected patients.