assist-control ventilation
A mechanical ventilation mode where the ventilator delivers a preset tidal volume for every patient-triggered or machine-triggered breath.
Full Definition
Assist-control ventilation (A/C) is a common mechanical ventilation mode that guarantees a minimum respiratory rate while allowing patients to trigger additional breaths above the set rate. Each breath, whether patient-triggered or machine-triggered, delivers the same preset tidal volume and inspiratory pressure. This mode provides full ventilatory support and is often used for patients with respiratory failure who need consistent tidal volumes. The ventilator will deliver machine-triggered breaths if the patient fails to initiate breathing within the set time interval.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as a compound modifier; can be abbreviated as A/C in clinical contexts.
In Context
- "The patient was placed on assist-control ventilation with a tidal volume of 500 mL and rate of 12 breaths per minute." — Ventilator setup documentation
- "Assist-control ventilation ensures consistent minute ventilation even if the patient's respiratory drive is impaired." — Clinical education material