What is the primary role of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in mechanical ventilation?

The primary role of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in mechanical ventilation is to prevent airway collapse during expiration. CPAP works by maintaining a constant level of pressure in the airways, which keeps the alveoli open and ensures that the airways do not collapse, especially in patients with conditions like obstructive sleep apnea or other disorders that affect airway patency. This continual pressure prevents atelectasis (collapse of the lung) and improves oxygenation by allowing for better gas exchange.

The other options describe important aspects of patient care but do not encapsulate the primary function of CPAP. While assisting in spontaneous breathing can occur with various modes of mechanical ventilation, CPAP itself is primarily focused on maintaining airway patency rather than actively assisting breath efforts. Providing additional oxygen levels during sleep relates to oxygen therapy but is not the core functionality of CPAP, which is about maintaining pressure to keep the airways open rather than solely increasing oxygen levels. Reducing discomfort in patients with high anxiety is important in managing patient comfort, yet it is more about the overall patient experience rather than the specific mechanical function of CPAP, which is centered on preventing airway collapse.