Which mode of ventilation is primarily used when a critical care ventilator is in operation for NIV?

Pressure Support Ventilation (PSV) is the primary mode used when a critical care ventilator is in operation for noninvasive ventilation (NIV) due to its ability to provide support for patients who can initiate their own breaths but need assistance to ensure adequate ventilation and reduce the work of breathing.

In PSV, the ventilator delivers a set amount of pressure to assist the patient's spontaneous breaths. This mode adapts to the patient's respiratory effort, meaning that it only activates when the patient takes a breath. This provides comfort and allows the patient to have control over their breathing pattern, which is crucial in noninvasive settings, where patient cooperation and comfort are vital.

Other modes such as Volume Control Ventilation and Assist/Control Ventilation can impose more on the patient's breathing because they either deliver a fixed volume or automatically assist all breaths, which may not be ideal in noninvasive configurations where patient triggering is preferable. High-Flow Nasal Cannula, while beneficial for certain patients, is not considered a mode of mechanical ventilation and does not actively assist with the work of breathing in the way that PSV does. Thus, PSV is specifically suited for NIV in critical care settings, enhancing patient comfort and collaboration while ensuring effective ventilation.