In Adaptive Support Ventilation, what is the objective related to minute volume and pressure?

• A. Deliver the optimal tidal volume at the lowest possible pressure to minimize auto-PEEP and encourage weaning
• B. Maximize inspiratory pressure to increase lung recruitment
• C. Keep FiO2 at 100% regardless of oxygenation
• D. Use a fixed tidal volume regardless of patient effort

Answer: (A)

Adaptive Support Ventilation aims to meet the patient’s ventilatory needs by delivering the required minute ventilation using the smallest possible airway pressures. The system automatically adjusts tidal volume and rate so that the target minute ventilation is achieved while minimizing the work of breathing and the energy delivered to the lungs. By operating with the lowest feasible driving pressure and an optimal tidal volume, it reduces the risk of auto-PEEP and supports weaning from ventilation.

This is why the best choice describes delivering the optimal tidal volume at the lowest possible pressure to minimize auto-PEEP and encourage weaning. The other options go against this approach: maximizing inspiratory pressure increases driving pressure and potential lung injury; keeping FiO2 at 100% ignores oxygenation management; and using a fixed tidal volume negates the adaptive, patient-responsive nature of ASV.