In mechanical ventilation, what does the term "PEEP" refer to?

PEEP stands for Positive End Expiratory Pressure, which is a critical component in mechanical ventilation. It refers to a modality in which a pressure is maintained in the airways at the end of expiration, preventing the alveoli from completely collapsing. By doing so, PEEP helps to enhance oxygenation by increasing functional residual capacity (FRC), allowing for more surface area for gas exchange during the next inspiration.

The application of PEEP can improve arterial oxygenation, reduce shunting, and recruit collapsed lung segments, making it a vital tool in the management of patients with respiratory failure. In addition, PEEP aids in maintaining the patency of the alveoli, thus preventing atelectasis and optimizing ventilation-perfusion matching.

Understanding PEEP is crucial for healthcare professionals as it assists in appropriately setting ventilator parameters to enhance patient outcomes during mechanical ventilation. This concept plays a significant role in managing various conditions such as ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) where the recruitment of collapsed lungs is essential for improving overall oxygenation.