Which condition could trigger a high pressure alarm on a ventilator?

A high pressure alarm on a ventilator is typically triggered when there is an increase in pressure required to deliver the set tidal volume, which indicates an obstruction or increase in resistance within the airway circuit.

In this case, a kinked line can create a blockage in the ventilatory circuit, leading to increased pressure in the system. The ventilator detects this increase in resistance and therefore activates the high pressure alarm to alert caregivers to the issue.

Other scenarios such as a dislodged endotracheal tube or obstructive lung disease may cause pressures to vary, but the immediate effect of a kinked line is a clear, mechanical blockage that raises the pressure alarm directly. Similarly, patient disconnection from the circuit usually results in low pressure alarms, as the ventilator detects a drop in the pressure due to the lack of airflow. Understanding how each situation affects ventilatory pressure can help caregivers respond appropriately to maintain proper ventilation and patient safety.