Final answer:
Air-trapping is a major concern in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when using the assist-control mode.
Step-by-step explanation:
Air-trapping is a major concern in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when using the assist-control mode. COPD is a lung disease characterized by chronic poor airflow which causes shortness of breath and a productive cough.
The breakdown of connective tissues in the lungs reduces the number and elasticity of alveoli, making it impossible to fully exhale air from the lungs. This leads to air being trapped in the lungs, hampering gas exchange and potentially causing low oxygen levels and high carbon dioxide levels in the blood.