Vent control
Separate resistance from compliance
Use peak pressure and plateau pressure to choose the right branch.
Peak pressureWhat the ventilator must generate to deliver flow/volume.Plateau pressurePressure felt by lung/chest after inspiratory hold.High resistance branchPIP high, Pplat normal or less elevated.Low compliance branchPIP high and Pplat high.Overdistension branchBird-beak loop, excessive VT/pressure.
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.
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