What is considered an optimum PEEP level for most patients?

What is considered an optimum PEEP level for most patients?

• A. 0-2 cm H2O
• B. 5-10 cm H2O
• C. 10-15 cm H2O
• D. 15-20 cm H2O

Answer: (B)

The optimal PEEP (Positive End-Expiratory Pressure) level for most patients is typically in the range of 5-10 cm H2O. This level of PEEP helps maintain alveolar recruitment, enhance oxygenation, and improve lung mechanics without significantly compromising hemodynamics. When PEEP is set at 5-10 cm H2O, it can help increase functional residual capacity (FRC) and prevent the collapse of alveoli during expiration, allowing for better gas exchange. In many clinical scenarios, especially in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or other forms of respiratory failure, this moderate level of PEEP can improve oxygenation while minimizing potential negative effects on cardiovascular stability. A PEEP level below 5 cm H2O may be insufficient for effective support in patients requiring mechanical ventilation, while higher levels beyond 10 cm H2O may lead to complications such as reduced cardiac output due to increased intrathoracic pressure, impaired venous return, and barotrauma. Therefore, the selection of a PEEP level in the 5-10 cm H2O range is a well-established practice to optimize ventilation while reducing risks.

The optimal PEEP (Positive End-Expiratory Pressure) level for most patients is typically in the range of 5-10 cm H2O. This level of PEEP helps maintain alveolar recruitment, enhance oxygenation, and improve lung mechanics without significantly compromising hemodynamics.

When PEEP is set at 5-10 cm H2O, it can help increase functional residual capacity (FRC) and prevent the collapse of alveoli during expiration, allowing for better gas exchange. In many clinical scenarios, especially in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or other forms of respiratory failure, this moderate level of PEEP can improve oxygenation while minimizing potential negative effects on cardiovascular stability.

A PEEP level below 5 cm H2O may be insufficient for effective support in patients requiring mechanical ventilation, while higher levels beyond 10 cm H2O may lead to complications such as reduced cardiac output due to increased intrathoracic pressure, impaired venous return, and barotrauma. Therefore, the selection of a PEEP level in the 5-10 cm H2O range is a well-established practice to optimize ventilation while reducing risks.