The nurse is caring for a patient whose ventilator settings include 15 cm H2O of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The nurse understands that although beneficial, PEEP may result in:
a. fluid overload secondary to decreased venous return.
b. high cardiac index secondary to more efficient ventricular function.
c. hypoxemia secondary to prolonged positive pressure at expiration.
d. low cardiac output secondary to increased intrathoracic pressure
D
Positive end-expiratory pressure, especially at higher levels, can result in a decreased cardiac output and index secondary to increased intrathoracic pressure, which impedes venous return. Fluid overload is not an expected finding. The cardiac index would likely decrease, not increase, along with cardiac output. PEEP is used to treat hypoxemia; it does not cause it.
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