Think
- High resistance or low compliance can prevent target VT delivery in pressure-limited modes.
- Check PIP/Pplat, circuit/tube, and patient mechanics.
Vent control
Pressure limit / interrupted breath branch
The ventilator may stop inspiration before delivering target VT because pressure rises too high.
Open high pressure pathwayPeak/plateau and resistance/compliance.Resistance branchBronchospasm, mucus, kink, bite.
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