A mechanically ventilated patient has shown significant clinical improvement. The lung consolidation and bronchospasm are almost completely resolved. Which of the following demonstrates the patient's improvement?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

P_plat is the plateau pressure, which is the pressure in the alveoli at the end of inspiration. PIP is the peak inspiratory pressure, which is the highest pressure in the alveoli during inspiration. As the patient's lung consolidation and bronchospasm resolve, the resistance to airflow decreases. This allows the alveoli to fill more easily, which decreases P_plat. The decrease in resistance also allows the ventilator to deliver the same volume of air with a lower PIP.

A Mechanically Ventilated Patient Has Shown Significant Clinical Improvement