Which of the following describes a characteristic feature of pressure support ventilation?

• A. It is primarily used for patients with chronic respiratory failure
• B. It requires mechanical triggering with every breath
• C. It allows patients to dictate their own respiratory parameters
• D. It relies on constant positive pressure throughout the entire respiratory cycle

Answer: (C)

Pressure support ventilation (PSV) is designed to assist patients with their breathing while allowing them a degree of control over their respiratory efforts. One of the defining features of this mode is that it does not deliver a set tidal volume or a set respiratory rate; instead, it provides a preset level of pressure support to assist with each breath that the patient initiates. This means that patients can breathe at their own pace and depth, effectively allowing them to dictate their own respiratory parameters.

This mode is particularly beneficial for patients who are able to initiate breaths but may need help overcoming the work of breathing. It encourages spontaneous breathing, which can improve patient comfort and promote ventilation efficiency. In contrast to other ventilation modes that may require strict control over all respiratory parameters, PSV promotes a collaborative approach between the ventilator and the patient, fostering a more natural breathing pattern.

Understanding this functionality highlights the importance of pressure support ventilation in clinical settings, especially for patients recovering from conditions impacting their respiratory drive or those undergoing weaning from mechanical ventilation.