title: Auto-PEEP: an impediment to weaning in the chronically ventilated patient.
abstract: Auto-positive end expiratory pressure (auto-PEEP) is a physiologic event that is a recently recognized phenomenon common to mechanically ventilated patients. Auto-PEEP occurs when forces exist that limit expiration and the subsequent elimination of positive pressure from the lungs. If positive pressure is retained, a potential reduction in cardiac output and increase in complications from barotrauma arise. Because of possible physiologic problems associated with it, auto-PEEP can potentially interfere with weaning from mechanical ventilation. Nursing measures that can reduce the effect of auto-PEEP during weaning are centered on improving the inspiratory/expiratory flow patterns. These efforts include manipulating mechanical ventilator settings and reducing causes of increased respiratory rates (e.g., pain and anxiety). Since auto-PEEP was only recently identified as a potential impediment to weaning from mechanical ventilation, the nurse must be aware of the need to assess for the presence of auto-PEEP in these patients.
authors.forename: L K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: Geisman
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Ahrens
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D006439:Hemodynamics / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment / Q000379:methods*; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D011175:Positive-Pressure Respiration / Q000451:nursing*; D012119:Respiration / Q000502:physiology; D015300:Ventilator Weaning / Q000379:methods / Q000451:nursing*