How can high pressure during mechanical ventilation affect the patient?

High pressure during mechanical ventilation can lead to barotrauma, which is a condition caused by the over-distension of the alveoli due to excessive airway pressure. This increased pressure can rupture the alveoli, allowing air to escape into the pleural space or surrounding tissues, potentially resulting in conditions such as pneumothorax.

In mechanical ventilation, achieving appropriate airway pressures is crucial to ensure adequate ventilation while preventing adverse effects. Sustained high pressure can compromise the integrity of lung tissue, worsening patient outcomes and heightening the risk of additional complications. Understanding the implications of pressure settings is vital for healthcare providers to balance the need for adequate ventilation with the prevention of lung injury.