Podcast # 461: Breath Stacking

Breath stacking occurs when a patient is unable to expire fully before another inspiration

In intubated/ventilated patients, this is because adequate time has not passed before exhalation

Asthmatics are susceptible due to the prolonged expiratory phase

Complications can include reduction in cardiac preload and cardiovascular collapse

Pursed-lip breathing can help in the spontaneously breathing patient

Intubation may be required when patients present with status asthmaticus and breath stacking