Which flow pattern results in a higher peak inspiratory pressure (PIP)?

A constant flow pattern results in a higher peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) due to the sustained flow throughout the entire inspiratory phase. This flow pattern delivers a consistent volume of gas to the patient over time without any decrease in flow rate.

In contrast, a decelerating flow pattern starts with a higher flow rate that gradually decreases during inspiration. While this can lead to better patient comfort and synchronization with their breathing efforts, it typically does not generate as high of a peak pressure as constant flow because the peak flow occurs at the beginning of inspiration and decreases thereafter, which can allow for greater compliance and less resistance in the airways.

Accelerating flow, on the other hand, is characterized by an increase in flow rate during inspiration, reaching a maximum before tapering off. While it can provide adequate ventilation, the flow change can prevent the pressure from reaching as high a peak as that seen with constant flow.

Variable flow can incorporate both decelerating and accelerating components, and its impact on PIP can vary depending on the specific nature of the variability in flow. However, it typically does not produce higher PIP than constant flow as the flow rate is not held steady throughout inspiration.

Therefore, constant flow is established as the flow pattern that