A patient receiving continuous mandatory ventilation in the assist-control mode develops auto-PEEP. Which of the following changes in ventilatory patterns would you consider to minimize the effects of auto-PEEP in this patient?
I.decreasing the rate or increasing V_T
II.using low-rate synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation
III.decreasing the peak inspiratory flow
IV.lowering the V_T and letting the PaCO₂rise

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To minimize the effects of auto-PEEP, strategies include decreasing the ventilatory rate or increasing the time for exhalation (I), using low-rate synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) to allow more time for exhalation (II), and lowering the tidal volume to reduce the amount of air trapped in the lungs and allowing the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) to rise if necessary for patient safety (IV). Decreasing the peak inspiratory flow (III) does not directly address auto-PEEP, as it's more about the speed of delivery rather than the volume or time allowed for exhalation.

A Patient Receiving Continuous Mandatory Ventilation in the Assist-Control Mode