Mechanical Ventilation: Volume Control vs. Pressure Control

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminology related to mechanical ventilation, focusing on volume control and pressure control techniques.

Mechanical Ventilation

A life-support method that assists or replaces spontaneous breathing.

Volume Control (VC)

A mode where a predetermined tidal volume is delivered with each breath regardless of the pressure.

Pressure Control (PC)

A mode where a set inspiratory pressure is applied for each breath, allowing the tidal volume to vary.

Tidal Volume (VT)

The volume of air moved in one breath.

Respiratory Rate (RR)

The number of breaths taken per minute.

Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP)

The pressure maintained at the end of expiration to keep the alveoli open.

Minute Ventilation (VE)

Total volume of air moved per minute, calculated as VE = VT × RR.

Peak Inspiratory Pressure (PIP)

The highest pressure reached during inspiration.

Driving Pressure

The difference between plateau pressure and PEEP.

Advantages of Volume Control

Guarantees delivery of set tidal volume and ensures stable minute ventilation.

Disadvantages of Volume Control

Risk of barotrauma due to variable peak pressures and may not adapt well to patient's breathing efforts.

Advantages of Pressure Control

Limits peak airway pressures and improves patient-ventilator synchrony.

Disadvantages of Pressure Control

Variable tidal volume delivery which can lead to inconsistent minute ventilation.

Variable Tidal Volume

The tidal volume that changes based on lung compliance and resistance in pressure control ventilation.

Fixed Tidal Volume

A consistent tidal volume delivered regardless of changes in lung mechanics in volume control ventilation.

Weaning Protocols

Gradual reduction in ventilatory support to allow patients to breathe independently.

Auto-PEEP

A condition where there is incomplete expiration leading to increased end-expiratory lung volumes.

Future Trends in Mechanical Ventilation

Increasing use of closed-loop systems and integration of artificial intelligence for personalized ventilation strategies.