Außerklinische Intensivversorgung in Deutschland
摘要
Isolated sleep-related hypoventilation represents the first stage of ventilatory insufficiency. In progressive neuromuscular diseases chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure regularly follows, leading to increasing dependence on noninvasive or invasive long-term ventilation. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are also at risk, especially in acute exacerbations. In advanced stages, some affected individuals require home intensive care (HIC). According to Section 37c of the German Social Code, Book V (SGB V), there is an entitlement to HIC if the continuous presence of a qualified nurse is required. Sleep medicine, respiratory medicine, home care and HIC should be organized as an integrated network to design the transition to HIC in a patient-centered manner.