What is the typical normal physiologic PEEP in non-ventilated patients?

The typical normal physiologic PEEP (Positive End-Expiratory Pressure) in non-ventilated patients is generally accepted to be in the range of 2-4 cm H2O. This level of PEEP arises naturally from the mechanics of breathing and the inherent properties of the lung, particularly in healthy individuals. PEEP helps to maintain alveolar patency at the end of expiration, thus preventing complete collapse of the alveoli and improving overall lung function by optimizing gas exchange.

In the context of non-ventilated patients, this physiological PEEP is important for maintaining adequate lung volumes and preventing atelectasis (lung collapse). It plays a significant role in enhancing lung mechanics and improving oxygenation, especially when the individual is primarily breathing spontaneously.

Understanding the normal ranges of PEEP is crucial, as deviations from these typical values might indicate underlying pathologies or the need for mechanical support. The other ranges do not reflect the physiologic levels typically observed in non-ventilated patients, as they would indicate higher pressures that are typically not present in healthy, spontaneously breathing individuals without artificial ventilation.