What is the maximum pressure support on a ventilator?

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Last updated: February 12, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

Maximum Pressure Support on a Ventilator

The maximum pressure support on a ventilator is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the studies provide information on the levels of pressure support used in different experiments and their effects on patients.

  • The study 1 used a pressure support level of 12.5±3.2 cm H2O and 12.5±3.9 cm H2O with a fixed termination criterion.
  • The study 2 increased pressure support in increments of 5 cm H2O at CPAP levels of 0, 2, and 4 cm H2O.
  • The study 3 proposed a conceptual model to describe the interaction between patient and ventilator during pressure support ventilation, but did not specify a maximum pressure support level.
  • The study 4 used a fixed level of pressure support ventilation (PSV) and compared it with volume support ventilation (VSV), with the pressure support level decreasing from 15.0+/-6.5 to 9.1+/-4.8 cmH2O after dead-space augmentation.
  • The study 5 evaluated the effects of pressure support levels of 0, 10, 20, and 30 cm H2O on ventilatory pattern and components of the work of breathing.

Key Findings

  • Increasing pressure support levels can decrease patient effort and improve patient-ventilator synchrony 1, 3.
  • Higher levels of CPAP may hinder diaphragmatic function and prolong mechanical ventilation 2.
  • Volume-guaranteed pressure-support ventilation may result in respiratory distress in clinical settings 4.
  • Pressure support can reduce the inspiratory work of breathing, but may not eliminate patient-ventilator dyssynchrony 5.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.