In oscillator ventilation, amplitude is analogous to which conventional ventilation parameter?

• A. Peak inspiratory pressure
• B. Positive end-expiratory pressure
• C. Tidal volume
• D. Respiratory rate

Answer: (A)

In oscillator ventilation, the amount of air moved with each oscillation—the amplitude of the pressure swing around the baseline—determines how much tidal volume is delivered. This gas movement mirrors the tidal volume on conventional ventilation, so amplitude is analogous to tidal volume. The baseline mean airway pressure governs oxygenation (similar to PEEP), and the rate reflects how often those oscillations occur, not how much air is moved per breath.