How does the pressure waveform appear when compliance is decreased?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the effect of decreased compliance on the pressure waveform in a respiratory context, specifically how the plateau pressure and peak inspiratory pressure are affected.
Answer
Elevated pressure at end of inspiration.
The pressure waveform shows elevated pressure at the end of inspiration when compliance is decreased.
Answer for screen readers
The pressure waveform shows elevated pressure at the end of inspiration when compliance is decreased.
More Information
When compliance is decreased, it means the lungs are stiffer and offer more resistance to volume changes. This leads to higher pressures needed to achieve the same volume, which is reflected in the waveform as an elevated pressure at the end of inspiration.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing compliance with resistance. While related, compliance refers to the lung's ability to stretch, while resistance relates to airflow within the airways.
Sources
- Stepwise Ventilator Waveform Assessment - pubs.asahq.org
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