During pressure-controlled continuous mandatory ventilation (PC-CMV) the respiratory therapist observes the pressure-time scalar shown below. The most appropriate action to take is which of the following?

a. Adjust the inspiratory time.
b. Increase the flow rate setting.
c. Adjust the inspiratory rise time control.
d. Increase the peak inspiratory pressure set-ting.

ANS: C
The pressure-time scalar shows a pressure spike at the beginning of the pressure curve before the pressure adjusts to the set value. Adjusting the inspiratory rise time control will slow the rate at which pressure and flow exit the ventilator. This will reduce or eliminate the pressure spike.