What are the risks of being on a ventilator?

Being on a ventilator carries several risks, including lung injury from mechanical ventilation (ventilator-induced lung injury), infections such as pneumonia due to prolonged intubation, and complications related to sedation and immobilization. Patients may also experience barotrauma, which is damage to the lungs caused by excessive pressure, and psychological effects, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress. Additionally, prolonged ventilation can lead to muscle weakness and difficulties in weaning off the ventilator.