This document defines key terms and concepts related to mechanical ventilation and interprets blood gas results to guide ventilator adjustments. It describes various ventilator modes, appropriate initial settings, priorities for weaning, and criteria for extubation. Volume control delivers a set tidal volume while pressure control uses a fixed pressure. Pressure-regulated volume control aims for a target minute ventilation. Complications include barotrauma, pneumonia, and cardiac/GI issues. Physical exams and pressure patterns can localize causes of acute deterioration. Neurologic, cardiovascular, and pulmonary status must be optimized before extubation.