Increasing the functional residual capacity of a spontaneously breathing patient to improve oxy-genation can be accomplished by which of the following?

a. Inspiratory plateau c. Negative end-expiratory pressure
b. Positive end-expiratory pressure d. Continuous positive airway pressure

ANS: D
Continuous positive airway pressure is a technique in which a patient breathes spontaneously at an elevated baseline pressure. This increases the functional residual capacity and mean airway pressure and improves lung recruitment and oxygenation.