Feeding Tubes
A life support machine is a combination of machines and therapies that work together to sustain human life. A major key in sustaining life involves feeding tubes. The feeding tubes provide nutrients to the body when a patient is not physically able to do so on his own. Because patients on life support generally have no control over muscle movement, they cannot swallow. The feeding tube is a type of medical device that will give them the nutrition that they need in order to maintain survival. Medical professionals often refer to tube feeding as enteral feeding. Most feeding tubes are used in acute situations that are likely short term until the patient recovers or is removed from life support all together. Some patients with long-term disabilities or illness may have to be on one permanently. Most feeding tubes are nasogastric and made from silicone; the tube is placed through the nose and down into the stomach. Those who need a feeding tube indefinitely may use a gastric feeding tube through their stomach.
Ventilator
A mechanical ventilation system is often part of the life support process to keep a patient alive. A ventilator uses negative-pressure ventilation for air intake and then positive-pressure ventilation for exhalation. A ventilator machine forces air into the lungs, usually by a bellows system, although it can also be done manually. A ventilator can be used during surgery, for someone who has long-term breathing disorders or with someone who is critically injured, rendering the brain and other vital organs unable to function on their own. The ventilator is used by inserting an enotracheal tube through the mouth and nose. If there is some an obstruction in the mouth or neck area, a tracheotomy may be used. This is inserted through an artificial hole in the neck so that air and oxygen can be administered. A ventilator can also be used in an emergency situation where a patient has to be compressed with a bag until medical equipment at a hospital can take over the situation.
Heart and Lung Bypass
A heart and lung bypass plays an integral part in a life support machine and process. This machine works in conjunction with the overall life support system and takes over the function and operation of both the heart and the lungs. When the patient has normal brain function but other organs are not functioning properly, the heart and lung bypass acts as life support until other medical conditions can be remedied. Also referred to as cardiopulmonary bypass, this machine properly maintains the overall circulation of blood in the body along with adequate oxygen. This machine is operated and maintained by a perfusionist. A perfusionist is someone who specializes in the operation of the pump and all aspects of extracorporeal circulation. This machine is also used during surgeries involving the heart and lungs and serves as life support or a protective measure in the case the organs fail. Patients who use this machine must use an anticoagulant or blood thinner to prevent clotting and blockage of the machine.
