What is the primary purpose of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)?

The primary purpose of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is to prevent airway collapse by providing constant pressure. CPAP works by delivering a continuous stream of air into the airway, which helps keep the air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) open, especially during expiration. This is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions such as sleep apnea or respiratory failure, where the airway may become obstructed or collapse due to reduced lung volume or muscle tone.

By maintaining an open airway, CPAP enhances ventilation and improves oxygenation. It also reduces the work of breathing, which can be crucial in managing respiratory distress. This constant pressure aids in keeping the alveoli inflated and prevents atelectasis (lung collapse), facilitating better gas exchange and overall lung function.

The other options have specific roles but are not the primary functions of CPAP. For instance, assisting with medication delivery focuses on the mechanism of delivering medications rather than maintaining airway patency, while oxygen delivery, although related, does not encapsulate the primary function of preventing airway collapse. The removal of carbon dioxide is also not a direct function of CPAP but rather a consequence of improved ventilation.