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Comment by NohatCoder | Hacker News Reader

Tubes down the lungs is definitely a bit tricky, not all patients will require that model though. As for careful monitoring, that is something the machine does on its own, as long as it has been configured correctly for the individual patient.

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This is incorrect on many levels. A ventilator always requires intubation. Sometimes that's through the mouth, sometimes through the nasal passage (both cases are referred to as endotracheal), and rarely through a tracheostomy. Ventilators do have some monitoring capability, but require consistent attention from respiratory therapists. The chances of infection (VAP), pneumothorax etc are serious without careful monitoring by a trained, experienced medical professional. These aren't plug and play devices.

Some patients might need supplementary oxygen delivered through a canula, or through a mask, but that's nothing like the procedure used for a vent.

A ventilator always requires intubation

Can you elaborate? This ventilator documentation[0] says for invasive and noninvasive ventilation

[0] https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/product/HCNOCTN98/res...

Many vents can also operate in BiPAP or CPAP modes or as pure demand O2 supplies for people who can still breathe. That can be done with a mask.

When treating bilateral interstitial pneumonia, you're almost always intubating. Patients presenting BIP require higher oxygenation than a CPAP style mask can provide. Using a limited availability ventilator with just a mask is a waste at this time.

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