pressure support ventilation
A spontaneous breathing mode where the ventilator provides a preset pressure boost to assist patient-initiated breaths.
Full Definition
Pressure support ventilation (PSV) is a patient-triggered, pressure-limited, flow-cycled mode of mechanical ventilation that augments spontaneous breathing efforts. The ventilator delivers a predetermined pressure level above PEEP when it detects the patient's inspiratory effort, continuing support until inspiratory flow decreases to a preset threshold. This mode is commonly used during weaning from mechanical ventilation as it allows patients to control their breathing rate and inspiratory time while receiving respiratory support. PSV helps reduce the work of breathing while maintaining respiratory muscle conditioning.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PSV; distinguish from pressure control ventilation in documentation.
In Context
- "The patient was transitioned to pressure support ventilation at 10 cmH2O to begin the weaning process." — Ventilator weaning protocol
- "PSV settings were adjusted to maintain tidal volumes between 6-8 mL/kg." — Respiratory therapy assessment