Question

The nurse is caring for a client who is receiving mechanical ventilation accompanied by positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). What assessment findings require immediate intervention?

Answer 1

Immediate intervention for a patient on mechanical ventilation with PEEP is required if signs of pneumothorax, subcutaneous emphysema, significant drops in oxygen saturation, or high peak airway pressure alarms occur.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client on mechanical ventilation with Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) requires immediate intervention if certain assessment findings are present. These include signs of pneumothorax, such as sudden chest pain, rapid heart rate, dyspnea, and decreased or absent breath sounds on one side. These symptoms may indicate a potentially life-threatening condition.

Sudden deterioration in respiratory function, such as a significant drop in oxygen saturation levels, or development of subcutaneous emphysema, where air leaks into the tissues under the skin, are also red flags. Additionally, a high peak airway pressure alarm on the ventilator may suggest a serious blockage or kinking in the tube, the patient biting the tube, the presence of secretions in the tube, or increased airway resistance due to bronchospasm or pneumothorax.