What does the term "mechanical ventilation" refer to?

The term "mechanical ventilation" specifically refers to the use of a machine to assist or control a patient's breathing. This process is essential in scenarios where a patient is unable to breathe adequately on their own, whether due to respiratory failure, severe illness, or surgical procedures requiring anesthesia. Mechanical ventilation involves the delivery of breaths through a ventilator, which can either augment the patient's natural breathing or take over the process entirely, ensuring proper ventilation and oxygenation of the lungs.

This definition distinguishes mechanical ventilation from other forms of respiratory support—such as providing supplemental oxygen via a mask, which does not directly control or provide breaths. Additionally, performing chest compressions is a critical intervention in cardiac arrest but does not relate to the mechanical support of breathing. Finally, administering medication to stimulate breathing is a pharmacological approach that enhances respiratory drive, rather than mechanically assisting with ventilation.