I would think that would depend somewhat on the type of transports that you do and the type of ventilator that you typically use. We use a RN/RT team configuration with an occasional physician if transport is anticipated to be a typically difficult one. We do not have a set protocal regarding vent settings...Generally we continue with settings instituted by the referring facility unless there is some particular reason not to. Otherwise, we use a rate consistant with a normal breathing pattern, maybe 5 of PEEP, and a tidal volume of approximately 10 ml per kg adjusted according to quality of breath sounds and chest rise accordingly. One of the big problems with a set protocol is the fact that there are just so many variables that affect how to manage the patient. Healthy vs. sick lungs, history and stability of patient, amount of sedation/paralytics used, etc. Not to mention the limitations of the ventilator used in transport. Adequate education and a good ole' dose of common sense is probably the best way to go.
