In the context of NPPV, what is PEEP typically understood to represent?

PEEP stands for Positive End Expiratory Pressure and is a crucial concept in the context of Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation (NPPV). It represents a mode of mechanical ventilation where pressure is maintained in the airways at the end of expiration. This pressure helps to prevent the collapse of alveoli, improves lung compliance, and enhances gas exchange by keeping the airways open during the breathing cycle.

By applying PEEP, it aids in recruiting collapsed or poorly ventilated lung units, thereby increasing functional residual capacity. This is especially beneficial in patients with conditions such as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), where maintaining alveolar recruitment is critical.

The other options do not accurately describe this essential parameter in mechanical ventilation, as they either misinterpret the acronym or do not align with established definitions in respiratory therapy and mechanical ventilation literature.