What physiological effect does CPAP have on the body?

What physiological effect does CPAP have on the body?

• A. Splits the airway to allow breaths to pass through without occlusion
• B. Improves pulmonary function
• C. Increased blood-gas-exchange efficiency
• D. Controls respiratory rate

Answer: (A)

CPAP delivers a steady positive pressure to the airways, acting as a stent to keep the upper airway open throughout the breathing cycle. This prevents collapse and obstruction during sleep, so air can flow freely with each breath. The primary effect is maintaining airway patency, which reduces obstructive events and the work of breathing. It doesn’t directly control respiratory rate or instantly improve measured pulmonary function; it may improve oxygenation by preventing airway collapse, but the essential action described is keeping the airway open so breaths pass through without occlusion.

CPAP delivers a steady positive pressure to the airways, acting as a stent to keep the upper airway open throughout the breathing cycle. This prevents collapse and obstruction during sleep, so air can flow freely with each breath. The primary effect is maintaining airway patency, which reduces obstructive events and the work of breathing. It doesn’t directly control respiratory rate or instantly improve measured pulmonary function; it may improve oxygenation by preventing airway collapse, but the essential action described is keeping the airway open so breaths pass through without occlusion.