When a positive pressure breath is delivered from a mechanical ventilator,how would intra-alveolar and intrapleural pressures be affected during inspiration?
A) Both would increase
B) The intra-alveolar pressure would rise while the intrapleural pressure remains subatmospheric
C) Both would decrease
D) Both would remain constant at their resting levels

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During a positive pressure breath from a mechanical ventilator, air is pushed into the lungs, causing the intra-alveolar pressure to increase as the lungs expand. Similarly, the pressure in the pleural space (intrapleural pressure) also increases due to the expansion of the lungs against the chest wall and diaphragm.

When a Positive Pressure Breath Is Delivered from a Mechanical