The main causes of respiratory failure admitted to the Tokyo National Chest Hospital between January and August in 1975 are sequelae of tuberculosis (80% have had surgical treatments) and other chronic lung diseases (mainly chronic bronchitis and pulmonary fibrosis).
On the care of chronic stable stage, cardiac care was emphasized, because majority of cases show abnormal EKG patterns indicated right heart strain or hypertrophy. Oxygen administration for activities of daily living and home care has discussed especially refer to comparative merits of the equipments.
On the care of acute aggravation stage, establishment of well equipped and personelled intensive respiratory care unit at national sanatorium and hospital is strongly suggested.
It comes to a conclusion that a hospital with intensive respiratory care unit, a medicovocational rehabilitation center, and an accomodation and vocational aid center, should be in system for comprehensive care of respiratory failure.
