PEEP

Question 1

How does PEEP work

Answer 1

PEEP improves oxygenation, ventilation and reduces workload of breathing by creating pressure in the thoracic cavity holding open smaller airways and alveoli to prevent lung collapse and increases preload and after load of right ventricle.

Question 2

Indications for PEEP

Answer 2

• When a manual ventilation bag is being used
• Cardiogenic pulmonary oedema
• If CPAP is indicated but unavailable and the patient has severe respiratory distress despite treatment or SpO2 less than 92% despite treatment

Question 3

Contraindications and cautions of PEEP

Answer 3

Contraindications- cardiac arrest because it increases intrathoracic pressure reduces blood flow achieved during CPR (can be applied if we get ROSC but not a priority) except neonates

Cautions - Vomiting, signs of shock, altered LOC

Question 4

Application of PEEP

Answer 4

• ensure tight seal with mask

- ventilated only if appropriate to clinical scenario