What is the purpose of monitoring peak airway pressures in ventilated patients?

Monitoring peak airway pressures in ventilated patients is crucial mainly for the prevention of barotrauma and the assessment of lung compliance. Peak airway pressure is the maximum pressure applied to the airways during mechanical ventilation, and elevated pressures can indicate potential issues such as decreased lung compliance or increased airway resistance.

When compliance is reduced, it means the lungs are stiffer, requiring higher pressures to inflate them, which can lead to barotrauma—damage to the lungs from excessive pressure. By closely monitoring these pressures, healthcare providers can adjust ventilator settings accordingly to maintain safe pressures, thereby reducing the risk of injury to the lungs and ensuring adequate ventilation.

Real-time assessment of these pressures also helps in evaluating the overall effectiveness of mechanical ventilation, as they can inform the clinician about the condition of the patient's lung mechanics and whether the ventilator is adequately supporting the patient’s needs.