Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Practice Exam

Which factors primarily influence Mean Airway Pressure (Paw)?

1. PIP, PEEP, inspiratory time, frequency, and gas flow

2. Tidal volume, compliance, and resistance

3. Frequency, oxygen concentration, and residual volume

4. End-expiratory lung volume, CO2 concentration, and chest wall movement

The correct answer is: PIP, PEEP, inspiratory time, frequency, and gas flow

Mean Airway Pressure (Paw) is a crucial parameter in mechanical ventilation, representing the average pressure in the airways during a respiratory cycle. The primary factors influencing Paw are Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP), Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP), inspiratory time, frequency, and gas flow. PIP reflects the highest pressure reached during inhalation, directly affecting the mean airway pressure as higher pressures can lead to an increased Paw. PEEP is utilized to maintain airway pressure during expiration, preventing the complete collapse of the alveoli and contributing significantly to the overall mean airway pressure. The duration of the inspiratory time impacts how long the pressure is maintained in the airways, thus influencing Paw rates. Additionally, the frequency of breaths alters the overall airway pressure by changing the cycling between inspiratory and expiratory phases. Lastly, gas flow during ventilation (the volume of gas delivered per unit of time) further influences how pressures build up within the airway system. Each of these parameters plays a critical role in the management of ventilation and is essential for ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation in critically ill patients.