When Breath Becomes Air

by

Paul Kalanithi

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BiPAP Machine Term Analysis

A bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine aids in breathing. It consists primarily of a mask that forcefully blows air into a patient’s lips to allow air to circulate in the lungs. Before Paul’s death, he has a severe shortness of breath and must use a BiPAP machine to keep oxygen flowing.
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BiPAP Machine Term Timeline in When Breath Becomes Air

The timeline below shows where the term BiPAP Machine appears in When Breath Becomes Air. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Epilogue
Time Theme Icon
Human Mortality, Strength, and Support Theme Icon
...life ends. They place a mask on his nose to help his breathing with a BiPAP machine. Paul’s blood carbon dioxide level is critically high, indicating that the work of breathing... (full context)
Knowledge, Experience, and Judgment Theme Icon
Human Mortality, Strength, and Support Theme Icon
...Paul consults with physicians about the steps forward. The critical-care attending doctor tells Paul that BiPAP is only a temporary solution; the only remaining intervention is for Paul to be put... (full context)
Time Theme Icon
Knowledge, Experience, and Judgment Theme Icon
Human Mortality, Strength, and Support Theme Icon
Family Theme Icon
...that if he doesn’t have a chance of meaningful time, he wants to take the BiPAP mask off and hold his daughter. (full context)
Human Mortality, Strength, and Support Theme Icon
Family Theme Icon
An hour later, Paul’s BiPAP machine and monitors are turned off, and morphine drips steadily through his IV. His breath... (full context)