Mechanical Ventilation Basics

Question

What phase marks the period from the end of inspiration to the beginning of the next breath?

a) Inspiratory phase

b) Inspiratory hold

c) Expiratory hold

d) Expiration phase

Answer 1

Expiratory phase! This is the portion of the breath cycle after inspiration stops and before the next breath begins. It is how we "ventilate" (remove carbon dioxide from the body). Some diseases can impair the expiratory phase, making exhalation and removal of CO2 more difficult for patients. Think "COPD" or obstructive lung diseases.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

D) Expiratory phase

Following inspiration, passive expiration begins (as opposed to active expiration, such as with running or other physical activity). This phase will conclude and the beginning of the next respiratory cycle will begin with active inspiration.