Mechanical ventilation TMC practice questions

1) While assessing a 64 year-old patient receiving volume controlled ventilation, you note that the peak airway pressure has decreased from 52 cm H2O to 32 cm H2O. There have been no other changes to the ventilator settings. Which of the following actions would be appropriate at this time? A. Increase the volume setting until the pressure equals 52 cm H2O B. Increase the flow setting until the pressure equals 52 cm H2O C. Check for increased secretions and suction if needed D. Check the circuit for system leaks When you see a major drop in peak pressure, the first thing you should check for is a leak or disconnection and correct it as soon as possible. You wouldn’t just want to blindly increase the volume or flow setting without first knowing what caused the peak pressure to drop.