To help prevent inflated alveoli from collapsing and reexpanding with each breath, the positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) level should be set at which point on the deflation part of the loop?

a. Above the upper inflection point
b. Below the upper inflection point
c. Above the lower inflection point
d. Below the lower inflection point

ANS: C
Setting positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) above the lower inflection point on the deflation part of the loop may help prevent inflated alveoli from collapsing and reexpanding with each breath.