What is the correct pressure setting of CPAP for a patient with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

The appropriate pressure setting for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) typically falls within a range that effectively maintains patent airway throughout the sleep cycle, preventing collapse of the upper airways during inspiration.

A pressure setting of 7-15 cm H2O is commonly recommended for the majority of patients with OSA, as this range has been shown to provide adequate airway support without causing discomfort or excessive pressure that could lead to adverse effects such as aerophagia. The lower limit of this range is designed to initiate treatment in mild cases, while the higher limit offers sufficient support for moderate to severe instances of OSA, addressing the varying needs among different patients based on the severity of their condition.

In contrast, lower pressure settings (like 5-10 cm H2O) may not offer adequate support for individuals with moderate to severe OSA, and higher settings (10-20 cm H2O or 15-25 cm H2O) might be required for certain individuals but are often not used as initial therapy due to potential discomfort and increased likelihood of non-compliance. Thus, the response indicating a pressure range of 7-15 cm H2O aligns well with standard clinical