What is a PedVAE?
A PedVAE is a complication—often involving infections or breathing issues—that can occur in children who have been on a ventilator for some time.
PedVAE Prevention Tips
- Daily Assessment: Ask your child’s care team daily whether they are checking for readiness to remove the ventilator.
- Bed Positioning: Keep the head of the bed elevated at a 30–45° angle to support breathing.
- Ventilator Circuit Care: Ensure that ventilator tubes are checked every 8 hours for condensation or dirt, and cleaned or replaced as needed.
- Oral Hygiene: Nurses or respiratory staff should clean your child’s mouth every 12 hours. Use a soft toothbrush or gauze with sterile water if no teeth are present. Remind staff to perform oral care before repositioning your child.
By partnering with your care team and following these steps, you help reduce the risk of ventilator-related complications and support your child’s recovery.
Published on: 6/26/2025