ventilator shortage
Not enough machines
A ventilator shortage occurs when demand for mechanical breathing machines exceeds supply, typically during respiratory disease outbreaks or mass casualty events.
The term gained widespread use during the COVID-19 pandemic, when hospitals faced difficult decisions about which patients would receive ventilator support: The ventilator shortage forced doctors to develop triage protocols.
- respiratorBreathing protection device
- life supportSystems maintaining vital functions
- ICUAcute care ward
- intensive careSpecialized treatment for severe illness
- hospitalMedical treatment facility
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