[Interhospital transport of patients with ARDS]

Abstract

In patients with severely compromised gas exchange, interhospital transportation is frequently necessary due to the need to provide access to specialized care. Risks are inherent during transport, so the anticipated benefits of transportation must be weighed against the possible negative outcome during the transport. The use of specialized teams during transportation can help to reduce adverse events. Diligent planning of the transportation, monitoring and medical staff during transport can decrease adverse events and reduce risks. This article defines the group of patients that may benefit from referral. This article discusses the risks associated with the transportation of patients with severely impaired gas exchange and the risks related to different means of transportation. The decisions required before transportation are described as well as the practical approach starting at the transferring hospital until arrival at the admitting hospital.

Keywords: Acute lung failure; Acute respiratory distress syndrome; Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; Intensive care transport; Interhospital transport.