Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

In High-Frequency Jet Ventilation (HFJV) and conventional ventilation (CV), how is CO2 decreased?

1. By decreasing PIP and rate

2. By increasing iTime

3. By increasing PIP and rate

4. By decreasing iTime

The correct answer is: By increasing PIP and rate

In High-Frequency Jet Ventilation (HFJV) and conventional ventilation (CV), the decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels primarily occurs through the manipulation of the pressure and the respiratory rate. Increasing the peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) enhances the volume of air delivered to the lungs, leading to increased alveolar ventilation. This increase in ventilation helps to eliminate more CO2, thereby decreasing its concentration in the blood. Additionally, raising the respiratory rate means more breaths are taken in a given amount of time, which further promotes gas exchange. As the frequency of breaths increases, the likelihood of removing CO2 from the system rises, facilitating a reduction in arterial CO2 levels. In contrast, options referencing a decrease in PIP or iTime would not effectively support CO2 clearance, as lowering these parameters can reduce tidal volumes or the duration of ventilation, leading to inadequate ventilation and potential accumulation of CO2. Hence, manipulating both PIP and the rate to higher levels is crucial for effective CO2 management in both HFJV and CV methods.