Your ARDS patient is being mechanically ventilated with PEEP.The PEEP is increased from 10 cwp to 15 cwp.Subsequently,the mixed venous PO₂ drops from 40 mmHg to 32 mm Hg.What does this indicate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The drop in mixed venous PO2 indicates a decrease in cardiac output. Increasing PEEP can increase intrathoracic pressure, which can decrease venous return to the heart and subsequently decrease cardiac output. This is why the mixed venous PO2 dropped.

Your ARDS Patient Is Being Mechanically Ventilated with PEEP