neurally adjusted ventilatory assist
A ventilation mode that uses the electrical activity of the diaphragm to trigger and control mechanical breaths, providing synchronized patient-ventilator interaction.
Full Definition
Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) is an advanced ventilation mode that utilizes a specialized nasogastric catheter with electrodes to detect the electrical activity of the diaphragm (EAdi). This signal is used to trigger, cycle, and proportionally assist the patient's spontaneous breathing efforts. Unlike traditional ventilation modes that rely on pressure or flow triggers, NAVA provides precise synchronization with the patient's neural respiratory drive, potentially reducing ventilator-induced lung injury and improving patient comfort. The level of assist is continuously adjusted based on the strength of the diaphragmatic signal, making it particularly useful for patients with variable respiratory drive or those difficult to wean from mechanical ventilation.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize the acronym NAVA; lowercase when spelling out the full term unless beginning a sentence.
In Context
- "The patient was transitioned to neurally adjusted ventilatory assist to improve synchrony and reduce sedation requirements." — Ventilator mode transition note
- "NAVA level was titrated based on the EAdi signal to optimize patient-ventilator interaction." — Respiratory therapy progress note