Intra-Hospital Transport of Patients on Non-Invasive Ventilation: Review, Analysis, and Key Practical Recommendations by the International NIV Committee

Abstract

Intra-hospital transport is often needed for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that cannot be performed at the bedside. However, moving patients from the safe environment of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) can lead to a variety of complications and adverse events, the risk is even higher in ventilated patients. This review is intended as a guide on how to prevent and avoid these adverse events during intra-hospital transport of patients on non-invasive ventilation (NIV). Greater attention should be paid to NIV indications and the selection of the patients to be transported. Detailed planning, preparation, and communication between the ward of origin and destination site, appropriate equipment, skilled staff, and continuous monitoring are the key major determinants of success in transporting critically ill patients on NIV. These points are discussed and analyzed in detail.