What is the purpose of a recruitment maneuver?

The primary purpose of a recruitment maneuver is to open collapsed lung units, which is crucial in improving ventilation and oxygenation in patients with conditions such as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) or other forms of atelectasis. During a recruitment maneuver, a series of controlled breaths with increased pressure or sustained inflations are performed to temporarily increase lung volumes, reopen alveoli that may have collapsed, and restore their functionality.

By expanding these collapsed units, the recruitment maneuver enhances the surface area available for gas exchange, thus improving overall oxygenation and potentially decreasing the need for higher oxygen concentrations or more invasive interventions. This technique is a vital aspect of mechanical ventilation strategies aimed at maximizing lung recruitment and improving patient outcomes.

In contrast, while other options may relate to ventilation management, they do not capture the central aim of recruitment maneuvers, which specifically addresses the need to expand collapsed lung areas to optimize respiratory function.