What does the term "continuous positive airway pressure" (CPAP) indicate?

The term "continuous positive airway pressure" (CPAP) refers to a form of non-invasive ventilatory support used primarily for patients experiencing respiratory failure, particularly in conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea or acute respiratory distress. CPAP therapy works by providing a steady stream of air that helps keep the airways open, preventing collapse during inhalation and ensuring adequate oxygenation. This method is advantageous because it does not require intubation, making it less intrusive and often leading to better patient comfort and compliance.

In this context, CPAP is specifically designed to support patients who exhibit difficulty in maintaining their airway patency or proper oxygen saturation levels without the need for more aggressive, invasive measures like mechanical ventilation. It enhances lung function, reduces the work of breathing, and can be integral in emergency settings for stabilizing patients until further treatment is available.

Other methods mentioned, such as invasive mechanical ventilation, are more complex and involve the use of endotracheal tubes, which is not the case with CPAP. Additionally, while bi-level positive airway pressure therapy involves different settings for inhalation and exhalation pressures, CPAP maintains a single, continuous pressure throughout the breathing cycle. Therefore, describing CPAP as a non-invasive form of ventilatory support best