Mechanical ventilation: Understanding the basics
Tracks
Stream Two - Plaza P1 & P2
| Wednesday, March 25, 2026 |
| 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM |
| Plaza P1 & P2 |
Overview
Melanie Reddy
Speaker
Melanie Reddy
Animal Referral And Emergency Centre
Mechanical ventilation: Understanding the basics
Abstract
In various clinical settings, nurses may encounter patients requiring mechanical ventilation—whether during surgical procedures, in cases of tick paralysis, or following envenomation from a brown snake bite. While nurses are not always expected to actively manage ventilator settings, they play a critical role in monitoring the patient and responding to changes in their condition.
Mechanical ventilation can be intimidating, particularly for those unfamiliar with its operation. However, possessing a foundational understanding of how ventilation supports the patient is essential. This knowledge can be the difference between a patient receiving life-saving support and experiencing adverse outcomes due to unrecognized complications.
The goal is to equip nurses with the confidence and competence to care for ventilated patients effectively. By fostering awareness and clinical insight, nurses can contribute meaningfully to patient safety, comfort, and recovery—ensuring that mechanical ventilation serves its intended purpose as a therapeutic tool rather than a source of harm.
Mechanical ventilation can be intimidating, particularly for those unfamiliar with its operation. However, possessing a foundational understanding of how ventilation supports the patient is essential. This knowledge can be the difference between a patient receiving life-saving support and experiencing adverse outcomes due to unrecognized complications.
The goal is to equip nurses with the confidence and competence to care for ventilated patients effectively. By fostering awareness and clinical insight, nurses can contribute meaningfully to patient safety, comfort, and recovery—ensuring that mechanical ventilation serves its intended purpose as a therapeutic tool rather than a source of harm.
Biography
Melanie is a dedicated veterinary nurse originally from South Africa, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience to the field. With a particular passion for anaesthesiology and wildlife care, she has carved out a niche in complex clinical environments where precision and compassion go hand in hand.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Melanie is deeply committed to the growth and empowerment of veterinary nurses. She thrives on mentoring others, fostering professional development, and championing the advancement of the nursing profession through education and collaboration.
When she’s not in scrubs, you’ll find Melanie soaking up the sunshine—whether she’s out for a run, curled up with a good book, lounging on the beach, or unwinding at home with her beloved ginger cat, Hunter. Her love for nature and animals extends far beyond the clinic walls, making her a vibrant and inspiring presence in both her professional and personal life.
