inspiratory hold
A ventilator maneuver that pauses airflow at end-inspiration to measure plateau pressure and calculate lung compliance.
Full Definition
An inspiratory hold is a brief pause (typically 0.5-2 seconds) in the ventilatory cycle that occurs at the end of inspiration, after the tidal volume has been delivered but before expiration begins. This maneuver allows the measurement of plateau pressure, which reflects alveolar pressure when there is no airflow. Respiratory therapists use inspiratory holds to assess lung compliance, distinguish between resistive and elastic work of breathing, and optimize ventilator settings while avoiding lung injury from excessive pressures.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from inspiratory time, which refers to the duration of active inspiration.
In Context
- "Perform an inspiratory hold to measure plateau pressure and calculate static compliance." — Respiratory therapy procedure note
- "The inspiratory hold revealed elevated plateau pressures suggesting decreased lung compliance." — Ventilator assessment report