Medtronic increasing ventilator production to address COVID-19 pandemic

Medtronic, a global leader in medical technology, announced Wednesday that it will more than double its capacity to manufacture and supply ventilators, in response to the urgent needs of patients and healthcare systems across the globe as the COVID-19 spreads.

A news release states ventilators can play a critical role in the management of patients with severe respiratory illness, such as COVID-19, who require assistance because they cannot breathe effectively.

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By placing a patient on a ventilator, the patient’s lungs are permitted to rest and recover while the ventilator performs the functions of supplying oxygen and simulating the actions of breathing. Without ventilation support, some patients with severe respiratory disease might not survive, according to Medtronic.

Medtronic also says additional staff is being transferred from other Medtronic sites to support the company’s ramped-up activities.

For the full release, click here.