What is the purpose of positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) during resuscitation?

The purpose of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) during resuscitation is to maintain gas pressure in the lungs between breaths. By keeping a certain level of pressure in the airways at the end of expiration, PEEP helps to prevent the collapse of alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs), improving alveolar recruitment and promoting better gas exchange. This is particularly crucial in neonates, who may have underdeveloped lungs or conditions that impair their ability to inflate adequately.

Maintaining pressure in the lungs ensures that they stay open, which facilitates effective ventilation and helps improve oxygenation. This is essential during resuscitation efforts, as it enhances the overall respiratory function and supports the newborn's needs during a critical time. In contrast, the other options—like increasing heart rate, providing supplemental oxygen, or clearing secretions—do not accurately describe the specific role of PEEP in the context of neonatal resuscitation.