CPAP precautions

• Positive Pressure Precautions (i.e. IPPB and CPAP) - Precautions / Contraindications:

  • undrained pneumothorax - air in pleural cavity
  • large bullae - present in emphysema
  • proximal tumour
  • severe haemoptysis - coughing up blood
  • persistent air leak post thoracic surgery
• Cardiovascular Effects of Positive Pressure (particularly high PEEP) - Possible detrimental cardiovascular effects:

  1. Loss of negative intrathoracic pressure (major component of venous return)
  2. Impairs venous return
  3. Reduction in cardiac output
  4. Reduced blood pressure