Respiratory Failure (RF), the inability of the respiratory system to meet the metabolic needs of the body, constitutes a significant and critical life entity in modern science. The lack of timely and appropriate management of RF will lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and cost.
In recent decades, the prevalence of Respiratory Failure has significantly increased because the nosological entities leading to it have increased and because patients with RF have a longer life expectancy.
RF can be a consequence not only of respiratory diseases but also of neuromuscular diseases, circulatory and central nervous system diseases, infections, multiple trauma, sepsis, and major surgical operations. Patients with severe respiratory failure often require hospitalization in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and need support with invasive mechanical ventilation.
Given the multifaceted nature of Respiratory Failure, health professionals working in environments where such patients are treated must possess specialized theoretical knowledge, clinical experience, and skills to effectively respond to their roles.
Antonia Koutsoukou, Emeritus Professor of Pulmonology Intensive Care
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