What is PEEP used for?

Answer 1

PEEP or Positive End Expiratory Pressure, is used to prevent collapse of alveoli after inspiration. It allows for air to remain in the lungs not allowing the crackling noise that can be heard through ausciltation. This is a setting on CMV, usually starts at a setting of 5.

Answer 2

PEEP stands for positive end-expiratory pressure and is used in mechanical ventilation to help keep the airways open and improve oxygenation in patients with lung diseases such as ARDS or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It prevents the alveoli from collapsing at the end of each breath, increasing functional residual capacity and improving gas exchange.