What is a common use of the plateau pressure measurement in clinical practice?

Plateau pressure is a critical measurement used during mechanical ventilation to assess the pressure in the lungs at the end of inhalation when airflow has ceased. This measurement provides valuable information about lung compliance and can help identify the risk of ventilator-induced lung injury.

Using plateau pressure to prevent overpressure damage to the lungs is vital in clinical practice. High plateau pressures can indicate stiff lungs or issues like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which can result in barotrauma or volutrauma if the pressures are not managed appropriately. By monitoring and adjusting ventilator settings based on plateau pressure readings, healthcare providers can help protect lung tissue from damage due to excessive pressure during ventilation, ensuring that patients receive adequate oxygenation without compromising lung integrity.

Understanding plateau pressure is crucial for effective management of patients requiring respiratory support, highlighting its role in safeguarding lung health during mechanical ventilation.