Answer :
Final answer:
Atelectasis is a common complication related to decreased lung compliance and mechanical ventilation, particularly in patients with restrictive lung diseases like fibrosis. The correct option is B) Atelectasis.
Explanation:
Among the complications due to decreased lung compliance and mechanical ventilation, Atelectasis is a common one. In conditions where lung compliance is decreased, such as restrictive airway diseases like fibrosis, the stiffness of the lungs can lead to difficulties in maintaining open airways during exhalation. This can result in regions of the lungs collapsing which is what happens in atelectasis. In the setting of mechanical ventilation, especially with improper ventilator settings, the risk of atelectasis increases due to the lack of adequate airway pressure to keep the alveoli open. Consequently, atelectasis is a concern when managing patients with mechanical ventilation who have preexisting low lung compliance.
Breathing and gas exchange are both altered by changes in the compliance and resistance of the lung. If the compliance of the lung decreases, as occurs in restrictive diseases like fibrosis, the airways stiffen and collapse upon exhalation. Air becomes trapped in the lungs, making breathing more difficult.
Therefore, the common complication due to decreased lung compliance and mechanical ventilation is B. Atelectasis, which is the collapse or closure of a lung or part of a lung.
