Positive Pressure Respirations is spelled phonetically as /ˈpɑzətɪv ˈprɛʃər ˌrɛspəˈreɪʃənz/. The first syllable 'po-' is pronounced as /pɑ/, followed by the 'si-' sounds like /zə/ . The second half of the word 'tive' is pronounced as /tɪv/. The word 'Pressure' is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable /ˈprɛʃər/, and the following syllables are pronounced with a soft 'sh' sound / ˌrɛspəˈreɪʃənz/. This term describes a medical procedure that involves forcing air into the lungs by increasing air pressure in the airways, which is commonly used in treating patients with respiratory failure.
Positive pressure respirations refer to a form of artificial ventilation or breathing assistance where air or oxygen is forcefully delivered into the lungs using a positive pressure device or machine. This technique is employed to facilitate breathing or replace the function of the respiratory system when it becomes compromised due to medical conditions, injuries, or surgeries.
During positive pressure respirations, air or oxygen is supplied to the patient's airways using a mask, tube, or an endotracheal tube that is connected to the positive pressure device. The device applies external pressure to push air or oxygen into the lungs, expanding the alveoli (small air sacs) to help with gas exchange. By delivering air or oxygen under positive pressure, this technique assists in drawing oxygen into the bloodstream and eliminating carbon dioxide.
Positive pressure respirations are commonly used during critical care situations, surgeries, and emergency medical procedures. This method can supplement or replace spontaneous breathing, allowing the patient's respiratory muscles to rest or recover. Positive pressure ventilation can be delivered through different modes such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP), or mechanical ventilation.
It is important to note that positive pressure respirations should be administered under the guidance of trained healthcare professionals as improper use or excessive application of pressure can cause complications such as barotrauma, pneumothorax, or cardiovascular compromise. Monitoring of the patient's vital signs and oxygen levels is essential to ensure safe and effective gas exchange during positive pressure respirations.