A patient being mechanically ventilated has the following ventilator settings: SIMV 16, PEEP 20 cm of H₂O, FiO₂ 45%, tidal volume .450 liters. What concerns will the nurse have for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high PEEP and tidal volume may increase the risk of barotrauma, which is a condition that occurs when high pressure damages the lungs. The FiO2 is within a safe range and does not indicate a concern for oxygen toxicity. Volutrauma refers to lung injury caused by excessive tidal volumes, which may be a concern with higher settings, but is not necessarily present in this case. Sinusitis is not directly related to the ventilator settings and is therefore less likely to be a concern for the nurse.

A Patient Being Mechanically Ventilated Has the Following Ventilator Settings