Which modality provides noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation?

Which modality provides noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation?

• A. Endotracheal tube
• B. Incentive spirometry
• C. BiPAP (noninvasive positive pressure ventilation)
• D. CPAP with nasal mask

Answer: (C)

Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation means delivering positive airway pressure through a mask or similar interface without inserting an artificial airway. BiPAP provides two pressure levels: a higher inspiratory pressure to actively assist inhalation and a lower expiratory pressure to keep the airway open during exhalation. This two-level support directly helps ventilation and reduces the work of breathing, which is why BiPAP is the classic example of noninvasive ventilatory support. In contrast, CPAP with a nasal mask supplies a single continuous pressure throughout the cycle, mainly keeping airways open but not delivering distinct inspiratory pressure to aid inhalation as BiPAP does. Endotracheal intubation is invasive ventilation, and incentive spirometry is a breathing exercise to expand the lungs rather than a ventilatory mode.

Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation means delivering positive airway pressure through a mask or similar interface without inserting an artificial airway. BiPAP provides two pressure levels: a higher inspiratory pressure to actively assist inhalation and a lower expiratory pressure to keep the airway open during exhalation. This two-level support directly helps ventilation and reduces the work of breathing, which is why BiPAP is the classic example of noninvasive ventilatory support. In contrast, CPAP with a nasal mask supplies a single continuous pressure throughout the cycle, mainly keeping airways open but not delivering distinct inspiratory pressure to aid inhalation as BiPAP does. Endotracheal intubation is invasive ventilation, and incentive spirometry is a breathing exercise to expand the lungs rather than a ventilatory mode.