What is the key characteristic of 'volume control' ventilation?

• A. It allows variable pressure delivery
• B. It provides fixed tidal volumes regardless of lung compliance
• C. It automatically adjusts to the patient's needs
• D. It only supports spontaneous breaths

Answer: (B)

Volume control ventilation is characterized by its ability to deliver a predetermined and fixed tidal volume to the patient with each mechanical breath, regardless of any changes in lung compliance or airway resistance. This ensures that the set volume is consistently delivered, which is particularly important in situations where the patient requires a specific volume of gas exchange, such as in cases of acute respiratory failure.

This mode is designed to maintain a constant delivery of air, ensuring that the tidal volume remains consistent. As a result, this can lead to increased pressures if lung compliance decreases, but the primary trait is the fixed nature of tidal volume delivery. The variability in pressure that may occur is an effect of compliance changes rather than a feature of volume control itself. Other ventilation modes may adapt to patient effort or allow for spontaneous breaths, but volume control is distinct for its rigid, consistent tidal volume delivery.