The increased work of breathing associated with auto-positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) during mechanical ventilation is due to:
1) Hyperinflation or impaired contractility of the diaphragm.
2) Large alveolar pressure drops required to trigger breaths.
3) Increased volume of the intrathoracic airways.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Auto-PEEP can lead to increased work of breathing primarily due to hyperinflation, which impairs diaphragm contractility, and the large alveolar pressure drops needed to trigger additional breaths. Increased volume of the intrathoracic airways is not directly related to the work of breathing associated with auto-PEEP.

The Increased Work of Breathing Associated with Auto-Positive End Expiratory