#267 AutoPEEP and I:E Ratio Explained - Mastering Mechanical Ventilation

AutoPEEP is one of the most important—and most commonly missed—problems in mechanically ventilated patients.

In this episode, we break down AutoPEEP and the I:E ratio in a clear, practical way so you can understand how they impact ventilation, gas exchange, and patient outcomes in the ICU and emergency department.

We cover:

• What AutoPEEP is and why it occurs

• How the I:E ratio contributes to breath stacking

• The relationship between expiratory time, airflow, and trapped gas

• How to recognize AutoPEEP on ventilator waveforms

• How to adjust the I:E ratio to prevent and treat AutoPEEP

• Clinical scenarios including COPD, asthma, and ARDS

Whether you’re managing obstructive lung disease or troubleshooting a ventilated patient with rising pressures, this episode gives you a practical framework to recognize and fix AutoPEEP at the bedside.

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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical decisions should be made by licensed healthcare professionals using their clinical judgment, institutional protocols, and current evidence. Whiteboard Medicine assumes no responsibility for clinical outcomes.