Question

When using a pressure-volume curve to identify optimal PEEP levels, what does the upper inflection point represent?

A) point of lung recruitment

B) point of lung over distension

C) optimal PEEP level

D) optimal compliance level

Answer 1

The upper inflection point on a pressure-volume curve represents the point of lung overdistension.

Step-by-step explanation:

The upper inflection point on a pressure-volume curve represents the point of lung overdistension. This is the point at which the lung tissue becomes too stretched and there is a decrease in compliance, or the ability of the lung tissue to expand and contract. Beyond this point, further increases in pressure can lead to damage and injury to the lungs.

Identifying the upper inflection point helps in determining the maximum safe pressure that can be applied to the lungs during mechanical ventilation.