What is Pressure Support Ventilation (PSV)?
In a spontaneously breathing patient, each breath may be augmented with a preset level of pressure. The extent of support depends on the level of pressure chosen. At a minimal pressure support of 8 to 10 cm of H2O, almost all the work is done by the patient, while at a support level of 20 to 25 cm of H2O, this is all machine work - the patient just needs to initiate the breath. PSV can thus be used as a full support mode or for partial support during weaning. At a pressure support level of 8 to 10 cm of H2O, it is generally possible to extubate.