Which statement best describes what a CPAP machine does?

Which statement best describes what a CPAP machine does?

• A. Always cures sleep apnea
• B. Positive pressure opens the airway that was previously closed
• C. Increases airway obstruction during sleep
• D. Provides negative pressure to the chest

Answer: (C)

CPAP works by delivering a steady positive airway pressure that keeps the upper airway open during sleep. In obstructive sleep apnea, the airway tends to collapse as muscles relax, causing pauses in breathing and lower oxygen levels. The continuous positive pressure acts like a splint, preventing that collapse and reducing the number of apneic events. It’s not a cure for sleep apnea, and it does not increase airway obstruction or create negative pressure in the chest. So the correct idea is that positive pressure keeps the airway open that would otherwise close.

CPAP works by delivering a steady positive airway pressure that keeps the upper airway open during sleep. In obstructive sleep apnea, the airway tends to collapse as muscles relax, causing pauses in breathing and lower oxygen levels. The continuous positive pressure acts like a splint, preventing that collapse and reducing the number of apneic events. It’s not a cure for sleep apnea, and it does not increase airway obstruction or create negative pressure in the chest. So the correct idea is that positive pressure keeps the airway open that would otherwise close.