The figure shows the pressure-time scalar for a pressure-support breath.To alleviate the problem depicted in this figure,the respiratory therapist should do which of the following?

A) Decrease the pressure setting
B) Increase the inspiratory time
C) Add inspiratory sloping
D) Decrease the set volume

Question

The figure shows the pressure-time scalar for a pressure-support breath.To alleviate the problem depicted in this figure,the respiratory therapist should do which of the following?

A) Decrease the pressure setting 
B) Increase the inspiratory time 
C) Add inspiratory sloping 
D) Decrease the set volume

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scalar shows a pressure overshoot owing to the rapid flow rate at the very beginning of inspiration.Adjusting the slope of the pressure and flow curves can change the rate of gas delivery at the very beginning of inspiration.This tapers the curves slightly until they reach their maximum value.Decreasing the pressure setting may alleviate the overshooting problem,but it does not provide the same level of assistance to the patient.Inspiratory time and volume are controlled by the patient in pressure-support ventilation and cannot be adjusted.

The Figure Shows the Pressure-Time Scalar for a Pressure-Support Breath