BRONCHIAL HYGIENE IN CRITICAL CARE: ENHANCING PULMONARY FUNCTION IN MECHANICALLY VENTILATED PATIENTS

Abstract: Background: Bronchial hygiene techniques (BHT) play a crucial role in the management of critically ill patients, particularly those on mechanical ventilation. These techniques aim to improve pulmonary function by promoting secretion clearance and optimizing respiratory mechanics. The impact of BHT on various clinical outcomes in mechanically ventilated patients remains an important area of study. Methods: A cohort of 128 critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation was included in this study. Bronchial hygiene techniques, including chest physiotherapy, suctioning, and postural drainage, were administered regularly as part of their respiratory care. The primary outcomes assessed were oxygen saturation (SpO2), the Horowitz index (PaO2/FiO2 ratio), inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2), and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2). Results: Post-intervention analysis revealed significant improvements in all measured outcomes. SpO₂ increased from 89.5 ± 4.1% to 94.7 ± 3.2% (p < 0.001), PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio improved from 235 ± 58 to 296 ± 72 (p < 0.001), FiO₂ decreased from 0.55 ± 0.12 to 0.45 ± 0.09 (p < 0.001), and SaO₂ increased from 90.3 ± 5.1% to 95.1 ± 3.3% (p < 0.001). Additionally, ICU stay duration was reduced from 10.2 ± 5.6 days to 7.3 ± 4.1 days (p = 0.002), and mechanical ventilation duration decreased from 8.5 ± 3.8 days to 6.2 ± 2.7 days (p = 0.004). Conclusion: The implementation of bronchial hygiene techniques in mechanically ventilated patients led to a significant enhancement in pulmonary function. The observed improvements in oxygenation parameters, including SpO2, SaO2, and the Horowitz index, suggest that BHT plays an important role in optimizing respiratory status in critically ill patients. These findings support the use of BHT as a valuable adjunct to routine critical care management in improving respiratory outcomes.