What is a common benefit of a lung recruitment maneuver in patients?

A lung recruitment maneuver is a therapeutic technique often used in patients with respiratory distress, particularly those on mechanical ventilation. One of the primary goals of this maneuver is to open collapsed or under-inflated alveoli, which enhances the recruitment of functional lung units. By doing this, there is an increase in surface area for gas exchange, ultimately leading to improved diffusion of oxygen into the blood.

Improved oxygenation is a critical goal, especially in conditions where gas exchange is compromised. This maneuver can help to reduce shunting and improve ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) mismatches. As a result, patients may experience enhanced oxygen saturation and reduced levels of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, contributing to overall better respiratory status.

The other potential choices present different physiological responses that, while they may be impacted indirectly by improved oxygenation or other interventions, are not directly the primary benefit of a lung recruitment maneuver. The focus remains on optimizing lung function and improving the efficiency of oxygen delivery within the lungs.