CPSGT Positive Airway Pressure Therapy & Treatment Modalities

Question 1

What is the primary mechanism by which CPAP treats obstructive sleep apnea?

Accepted Answer

Creates a pneumatic splint to keep the airway open

Answer

CPAP delivers continuous positive pressure that acts as a pneumatic splint, preventing the collapse of upper airway soft tissues during sleep.

Question 2

Which PAP modality automatically adjusts treatment pressure throughout the night based on detected respiratory events?

Accepted Answer

APAP (Auto-titrating PAP)

Answer

APAP devices use algorithms to detect apneas, hypopneas, snoring, and flow limitation, then automatically increase or decrease pressure within a preset range.

Question 3

What is the typical minimum starting pressure for CPAP titration in adult patients per AASM guidelines?

Accepted Answer

4-5 cm H2O

Answer

AASM titration guidelines recommend beginning CPAP titration at 4-5 cm H2O in adults and adjusting upward based on observed respiratory events.

Question 4

BiPAP therapy delivers pressure on two levels. What are the correct terms for these two pressure settings?

Accepted Answer

IPAP and EPAP

Answer

BiPAP delivers IPAP (Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure) during inhalation and a lower EPAP (Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure) during exhalation.

Question 5

Which PAP device modality is specifically indicated for patients with complex sleep apnea or Cheyne-Stokes respiration associated with heart failure?

Accepted Answer

ASV (Adaptive Servo-Ventilation)

Answer

ASV uses a servo-controlled algorithm to provide varying levels of ventilatory support that counteracts the waxing and waning breathing pattern seen in Cheyne-Stokes respiration and complex sleep apnea.

Certified Polysomnographic Technician Certification Practice Test

Certified Polysomnographic Technician Certification Practice Test

CPSGT Positive Airway Pressure Therapy & Treatment Modalities