A 46-Year-Old Hospitalized Man Experiences Worsening Dyspnea and Hypoxemia

A 46-year-old hospitalized man experiences worsening dyspnea and hypoxemia.  The patient was admitted 2 days ago due to alcohol-induced acute pancreatitis.  He has no history of cardiopulmonary disorders.  Chest x-ray reveals new bilateral infiltrates.  His respiratory condition progressively deteriorates and endotracheal intubation is performed.  Mechanical ventilation with a lung-protective strategy is begun and a positive end-expiratory pressure of 10 cm H₂O is applied.  Which of the following is the most likely effect of this latter intervention?

A) Decreased alveolar pressure
B) Decreased intrapleural pressure
C) Increased functional residual capacity
D) Increased intrapulmonary shunting
E) Increased minute ventilation

Correct Answer:

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