What is the primary purpose of mechanical ventilation?

The primary purpose of mechanical ventilation is to provide adequate gas exchange and support respiratory function in patients with respiratory failure. Mechanical ventilation is utilized when a patient's ability to breathe is compromised due to conditions such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or trauma. By assisting or fully supporting the patient's ventilatory needs, mechanical ventilation ensures that adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal can be achieved, which is essential for maintaining normal metabolic function and preventing respiratory distress or failure.

While completely taking over all breathing for a patient can be a function of certain modes of mechanical ventilation, it is not the primary purpose. Reducing the need for oxygen is not a goal of ventilation; in fact, many patients may require supplemental oxygen during mechanical ventilation. Monitoring respiratory rates during surgery does occur, but the primary purpose of mechanical ventilation itself revolves around supporting gas exchange rather than merely observing respiratory patterns.