Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

What does the term "spontaneous breaths" refer to in the context of Pressure Support Ventilation (PSV)?

1. Breaths taken without any ventilator assistance

2. Breaths that can be assisted by the ventilator

3. Involuntary breaths during sedation

4. Controlled breaths delivered by the ventilator

The correct answer is: Breaths that can be assisted by the ventilator

In the context of Pressure Support Ventilation (PSV), "spontaneous breaths" specifically refers to those that are initiated by the patient themselves but can be assisted by the ventilator. This means that while the patient is in control of their breathing pattern, the ventilator provides a boost of pressure to support these efforts, making it easier for the patient to inhale. The use of PSV is particularly beneficial for patients who are capable of initiating breaths but may require additional assistance to achieve adequate tidal volume or to reduce the work of breathing. In this scenario, the ventilator does not dictate the timing or frequency of the breaths; instead, it responds to the patient's effort, delivering pressure only when a spontaneous breath is detected. This aids in improving patient comfort and enhancing the overall efficacy of ventilation without completely taking over the patient's respiratory efforts. The other options represent different respiratory mechanics. Breaths taken without any ventilator assistance focus on spontaneous breathing without any support, while involuntary breaths during sedation refer to breaths that happen without the patient's conscious effort, which would not be categorized as spontaneous. Controlled breaths delivered by the ventilator are entirely managed by the machine, providing no input from the patient initiating the breath. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for managing patients effectively in a