What is the purpose of PEEP in mechanical ventilation?

What is the purpose of PEEP in mechanical ventilation?

• A. To increase tidal volume
• B. To prevent alveolar collapse
• C. To enhance oxygenation
• D. To facilitate secretion clearance

Answer: (B)

The purpose of PEEP, or Positive End-Expiratory Pressure, in mechanical ventilation is primarily to prevent alveolar collapse. By maintaining a certain level of pressure in the airways at the end of expiration, PEEP helps keep the alveoli open and prevents them from deflating completely. This is especially crucial in conditions where the lungs may be compliant, or there is a risk of atelectasis (collapse of alveoli) which can occur when there are low lung volumes or poor surfactant function. In the context of mechanical ventilation, the application of PEEP can improve lung mechanics by increasing functional residual capacity (FRC) and ensuring that a greater surface area of the alveoli is available for gas exchange. This, in turn, enhances the efficiency of oxygen delivery to the bloodstream. While enhancing oxygenation is also a beneficial effect of PEEP, its primary role is ensuring that alveoli remain open at the end of expiration between breaths. This foundational aspect of lung function is critical in patient ventilation strategies aimed at improving overall respiratory function and optimizing oxygenation.

The purpose of PEEP, or Positive End-Expiratory Pressure, in mechanical ventilation is primarily to prevent alveolar collapse. By maintaining a certain level of pressure in the airways at the end of expiration, PEEP helps keep the alveoli open and prevents them from deflating completely. This is especially crucial in conditions where the lungs may be compliant, or there is a risk of atelectasis (collapse of alveoli) which can occur when there are low lung volumes or poor surfactant function.

In the context of mechanical ventilation, the application of PEEP can improve lung mechanics by increasing functional residual capacity (FRC) and ensuring that a greater surface area of the alveoli is available for gas exchange. This, in turn, enhances the efficiency of oxygen delivery to the bloodstream.

While enhancing oxygenation is also a beneficial effect of PEEP, its primary role is ensuring that alveoli remain open at the end of expiration between breaths. This foundational aspect of lung function is critical in patient ventilation strategies aimed at improving overall respiratory function and optimizing oxygenation.