Which parameter is NOT controlled in Pressure Control ventilation?

Which parameter is NOT controlled in Pressure Control ventilation?

• A. Peak inspiratory pressure
• B. Mean airway pressure
• C. Alveolar pressure (Pplat)
• D. Exact tidal volume

Answer: (D)

In Pressure Control ventilation, the primary focus is on maintaining a specific peak inspiratory pressure during each breath cycle, regardless of the volume delivered. This means that the ventilator is set to deliver air until it reaches the predetermined pressure level, which can result in varying tidal volumes depending on the compliance and resistance of the patient's respiratory system. Exact tidal volume is not a controlled parameter in this mode because it can fluctuate based on the patient's lung mechanics. For instance, changes in lung compliance or airway resistance can lead to significant variations in tidal volume even when the inspiratory pressure remains constant. In contrast, peak inspiratory pressure is strictly monitored and controlled to prevent barotrauma and ensure patient safety. Mean airway pressure can also be influenced by the pressures used during ventilation, and although the alveolar pressure can change, it is not a direct setting on the ventilator. These parameters are integral to ensuring appropriate respiratory support, but precise tidal volume is inherently variable in this mode of ventilation.

In Pressure Control ventilation, the primary focus is on maintaining a specific peak inspiratory pressure during each breath cycle, regardless of the volume delivered. This means that the ventilator is set to deliver air until it reaches the predetermined pressure level, which can result in varying tidal volumes depending on the compliance and resistance of the patient's respiratory system.

Exact tidal volume is not a controlled parameter in this mode because it can fluctuate based on the patient's lung mechanics. For instance, changes in lung compliance or airway resistance can lead to significant variations in tidal volume even when the inspiratory pressure remains constant.

In contrast, peak inspiratory pressure is strictly monitored and controlled to prevent barotrauma and ensure patient safety. Mean airway pressure can also be influenced by the pressures used during ventilation, and although the alveolar pressure can change, it is not a direct setting on the ventilator. These parameters are integral to ensuring appropriate respiratory support, but precise tidal volume is inherently variable in this mode of ventilation.