Status Monitor
BP 115/65
Temp 37.9 oC
HR 100
RR 20

 

A gradual increase in PEEP to 16 cm H2O leads to recruitment of lung units with a significant improvement in oxygenation. Her pO2 increases to 93 mmHg which enables her FiO2 to decrease to 60%.

After feeling rather pleased seeing the results of this maneuvre (increasing PEEP) you are ready to move on to the next patient when your consultant asks you:

    What is the best level of PEEP?
To which you reply:

  1. The lower the better
  2. The higher the better
  3. PEEP which provides best oxygen saturation
  4. The least PEEP accomplishing adequate oxygen delivery and lung compliance

 

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