Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What is a primary benefit of CPAP in patients with respiratory distress?

1. It decreases pressure in the lungs

2. It helps collapse alveoli for better oxygenation

3. It opens collapsed alveoli and pushes more oxygen across the membrane

4. It stops the need for further respiratory assessment

The correct answer is: It opens collapsed alveoli and pushes more oxygen across the membrane

The primary benefit of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in patients with respiratory distress is that it opens collapsed alveoli and increases the diffusion of oxygen across the alveolar-capillary membrane. In patients experiencing respiratory distress, especially those with conditions like pulmonary edema or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the alveoli can collapse due to fluid or airway obstruction, leading to inadequate gas exchange. By providing a continuous flow of air at a positive pressure, CPAP helps keep the alveoli open during expiration, preventing them from collapsing. This not only improves lung compliance but also enhances ventilation-perfusion matching, thereby facilitating better oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide elimination. As a result, patients often experience improved oxygen saturation levels and overall respiratory function when CPAP is utilized effectively. The other options present alternate ideas that do not accurately reflect the primary role of CPAP in managing respiratory distress. While they may relate to aspects of respiratory care, they do not convey the most significant benefit of implementing CPAP therapy.