What does PEEP stand for in mechanical ventilation?

PEEP stands for Positive End-Expiratory Pressure, which is a critical concept in mechanical ventilation. It refers to the pressure in the airways at the end of expiration, helping to maintain a certain level of pressure in the lungs throughout the breathing cycle. This pressure helps to keep the alveoli open, preventing collapse and improving gas exchange. By avoiding alveolar collapse, PEEP enhances oxygenation and overall lung function, particularly in patients with conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

The implementation of PEEP can be vital during mechanical ventilation as it aids in recruiting collapsed lung units and helps maintain functional residual capacity, ultimately leading to more effective ventilation and improved outcomes for patients with compromised respiratory function. Understanding PEEP is essential for healthcare providers managing patients requiring mechanical ventilation, as it directly affects oxygenation and ventilation strategies.