Physiologic PEEP

Q: Routine application of physiologic PEEP  at 5 to 8 cm H2O in ventilated patients decreases overall mortality?

A) True

B) False

Answer: B

Routine application of PEEP  at 5 to 8 cm H2O does not make any difference in mortality or ICU length of stay, but it decreases the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), lower incidences of hypoxemia, and decreased leakage of posterior pharyngeal secretions into the lower airway.

#pulmonary

#ventilators

References:

1. Smith, RA. Physiologic PEEP. Respir Care 1988; 33:620.

2. Manzano F, Fernández-Mondéjar E, Colmenero M, et al. Positive-end expiratory pressure reduces incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in nonhypoxemic patients. Crit Care Med 2008; 36:2225.

3. Lucangelo U, Zin WA, Antonaglia V, et al. Effect of positive expiratory pressure and type of tracheal cuff on the incidence of aspiration in mechanically ventilated patients in an intensive care unit. Crit Care Med 2008; 36:409.