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Vent control

Peak pressure

Peak inspiratory pressure reflects the pressure needed to deliver the breath through the patient, tube, and circuit.

If PIP high but plateau normalResistance branch.Measure plateau nextInspiratory hold branch.

PIP and plateau context

PIP and plateau context

Peak pressure is before inspiratory hold; plateau pressure is read when flow is zero.

What raises PIP

  • Inspiratory flow rate and flow pattern.
  • Airway resistance: bronchospasm, mucus, blood, kink, bite, small ETT, circuit resistance.
  • Respiratory-system compliance: ARDS/edema, pneumothorax, abdominal pressure, mainstem, overdistension.

Clinical review / use limits

Authored by: Airway of the Month education team. Last reviewed: July 2026. Audience: EM learners, faculty, EMS, RT, simulation educators, and airway teams.

This is an educational cognitive-aid scaffold, not a bedside order set. Verify medications, ventilator changes, pediatric dosing, and procedures against local ED, ICU, anesthesia, pharmacy, RT, EMS, and pediatric policies.

Resources · Editorial policy · ACEP intubation policy · ARDS ventilation reference