Which of the following is a disadvantage of BiPAP?

The selection of the statement regarding the disadvantage of BiPAP being that "the mask must be tightly secured" is insightful. BiPAP, or Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure, requires a proper fit of the mask to create a reliable seal necessary for effective therapy. If the mask is not fitted snugly, air leaks can occur, undermining the therapeutic pressures intended to assist with breathing. This may lead to inadequate ventilation or poor oxygenation for the patient, making it an essential consideration when using this modality.

Additionally, a tightly secured mask can cause discomfort and could lead to skin breakdown or pressure sores over prolonged use. Understanding this factor helps in patient management, ensuring that comfort measures and regular assessment of the mask fit are priorities when implementing BiPAP therapy.

The other options do not accurately represent disadvantages of BiPAP; for instance, it is not limited to sleep apnea treatment, nor do patients need to tolerate sedatives for BiPAP use. Additionally, BiPAP is designed to function independently of a ventilator, allowing flexibility in its application depending on the clinical scenario.