During CPAP usage, which condition makes a candidate not suitable for this type of therapy?

In the context of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy, severe apnea is a condition that can make a candidate unsuitable for this type of treatment. CPAP is primarily designed to keep the airways open and prevent collapse during sleep, particularly in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. However, in cases of severe apnea, where the airway obstruction is significant or the individual's ability to breathe is critically compromised, administering CPAP can potentially worsen the situation.

The delivery of CPAP requires that the airway is patent and that the patient has an adequate respiratory drive. Severe apnea may indicate a more profound underlying condition that CPAP cannot address effectively, and initiating this therapy without addressing the fundamental causes could lead to respiratory distress or failure.

In contrast, increased work of breathing and mild CO2 retention may be manageable under CPAP therapy with appropriate settings, while atelectasis could also be improved with CPAP to promote re-expansion of collapsed lung areas. Thus, among the provided conditions, severe apnea is particularly contraindicated for CPAP treatment.