Final answer:
Mechanical ventilation improves oxygenation in ARDS by providing assisted breathing, adjusting ventilation to ameliorate V/Q mismatch, maintaining alveoli openness through CPAP, and administering pulmonary surfactant to enhance lung compliance.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Mechanical Ventilation Improves Oxygenation in ARDS
Mechanical ventilation is a critical intervention for supporting patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). In ARDS, the lungs' compliance is reduced, making breathing laborious. Mechanical ventilation helps by providing assisted ventilation to ensure adequate oxygenation and carbon dioxide removal. By adjusting the tidal volume and respiratory rate, mechanical ventilation can reduce the work of breathing and enhance gas exchange.
One key advantage of mechanical ventilation is the ability to ameliorate V/Q mismatch by increasing alveolar ventilation relative to blood flow in aerated portions of the lung. Through the use of controlled ventilation settings, it is possible to directly influence the oxygenation and ventilation of the patient. If resistance increases or compliance decreases within the lungs, altering ventilation and airway pressures can help maintain oxygenation levels.
Other strategies like the application of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) can help by keeping alveoli open and reducing the likelihood of atelectasis, promoting better gas exchange. Furthermore, supplemental therapies such as pulmonary surfactant administration can improve lung compliance, facilitating better oxygenation and overall respiratory function.