Vent control

Peak vs plateau

  • Peak pressure reflects resistance plus compliance.
  • Plateau pressure requires inspiratory hold in passive patient and reflects alveolar pressure.
  • High peak with normal plateau suggests resistance/obstruction; high plateau suggests compliance/recruitment/ARDS/overdistension.

Educational resource only. Use institutional protocols, local policy, and bedside clinical judgment. Not a substitute for supervised training, medical direction, or emergency care guidance.