[Clinical problem solving as a measurement instrument in a diploma course for respiratory technicians].

Background: We undertook this study to consider the gaps in the training of clinical respiratory insufficiency as relates to students enrolled in a technical professional course in respiratory therapy.

Method: An instrument was constructed and validated to evaluate clinical aptitude, integrated by four clinical cases of respiratory insufficiency. Six indicators were defined and 140 statements were elaborated, after two rounds with five technicians in respiratory therapy with experience in the care of patients with respiratory insufficiency in intensive care units, 90 statements remained.

[Pulmonary mechanics, oxygenation index, and alveolar ventilation in patients with two controlled ventilatory modes. A comparative crossover study].

Objective: To compare in a crossover study pulmonary mechanics, oxigenation index (PaO(2)/FiO(2)), and partial pressure of CO(2) in arterial blood (PaCO(2)) in patients with mechanical ventilation in two controlled ventilatory modes.

Setting: Intensive care unit of a university affiliated hospital.

Design: Prospective crossover clinical trial.